PLANS have been lodged to demolish a former car sales building on a main road just outside Bolton town centre in order to build commercial units and flats.

The proposals would mean the demolition of Claremont House, on Halliwell Road, which previously operated as Claremont Garage.

Documents lodged with Bolton Council this week say the wish is to build four commercial and retail units on the ground floor of a newly constructed building on the site, with seven flats on the upper two floors.

A planning statement from G &T architects on behalf of the applicants, said: “The building to which this proposal relates is on Halliwell Road, directly north of Hargreaves Street, a short distance from Bolton town centre.

“It operated as used car sales and service premises with office accommodation on the upper floor.

“That use ceased in early 2020, but it is noted that the site has continued to have ‘ad-hoc’uses for vehicle recovery and washing services over the last 12 months.

“The applicant came to conclusion that demolition of the existing building, in order to regenerate and update the plot was the most viable.

“Due to the location of the site, potential commercial and residential uses are considered to be the most appropriate way forward, continuing the current theme.

“The proposal is to demolish the stone-built double fronted two-storey property and then construct a terrace block comprising retail units at ground floor level with apartments above.”

The plans propose a drop-off zone with short term parking be provided to the front for the retail units.

The applicants summarised their case for development.

They said: “The use of the existing building has now ceased, and potential options for future use are very limited.

“The building is already in need of maintenance and repair, which will no doubt deteriorate over time and attract vandals and other unwanted attention.

“Private investment will offer viable uses for the site, and enhance the area for years to come.

“Taking into account the local amenities and other land uses available in close proximity to the site, this proposal should be considered acceptable.”

Bolton’s planning department will consider the plans at a future date.