A CONSULTANCY firm has been appointed to advise on the future of Bolton Bus Station.

Deloitte Real Estate was chosen by Transport for Greater Manchester to help Bolton Council attract developers for the site in Moor Lane.

The existing station will be vacated in 2015 when it will move to the proposed flagship £48 million transport interchange at Bolton Train Station.

Catherine Birks, from Deloitte Real Estate, said: “The relocation of the bus station to form part of the new transport interchange will improve the public transport links to and from the town centre.

“We have embarked on a thorough scoping exercise to recommend how the existing bus station site on Moor Lane should best be used in line with the strategic aspirations of Bolton Council. We will deliver our recommendations in advance of the site being marketed in order to attract the right developer.”

Full planning permission has already been granted for the interchange, which is due to open by spring 2015.

It will include a high-level pedestrian bridge between the train and bus station, as well as eco-friendly powersaving schemes and a cycle station. Some of its “green”

features include rainwater recycling, solar panels, air source heat pumps and low energy LED lighting.

The cycle station will include showers, changing cubicles and secure parking for bikes to encourage people to ride into the town centre.

The council says the project will provide better bus and rail links, as well as improved waiting areas, passenger facilities, accessibility, information, safety and security.

Bolton Council leader Cllr Cliff Morris said: “We are working hard to keep our town centre development programme moving in these difficult economic circumstances and this gateway site is a key part of our town centre strategy.

“The relocation of the bus station will free up central development space, and we will work closely with Transport for Greater Manchester and Deloitte Real Estate on identifying the most suitable use for the site and attracting the right developer.