DEMOLITION work has started on the site of Bolton’s new £48 million transport interchange.

Work began after pre-demolition measures such as utility disconnections were completed at properties in Newport Street, Great Moor Street and Johnson Street while archaeological studies were also concluded in the area.

Leader of Bolton Council Cllr Cliff Morris said: “This is another milestone in the transformation of Bolton town centre. This marks the beginning of physical work on a new, up-to-date transport facility for commuters.

“We’re working hard to keep our town centre development programme moving and the transport interchange is a key part of our strategy.”

The project is being funded through the Greater Manchester Transport Fund and will support the council’s town centre transport strategy.

It includes a cycle hub as part of a Greater Manchester wide cycling initiative.

The interchange project will see a new bus station built opposite the current train station in Trinity Street with the two facilities linked by an enclosed pedestrian footbridge.

The archaeological investigation uncovered possible remains of Bolton’s industrial past, including foundations and footings from the old buildings.

The material recovered is currently being examined in more detail and a report will be produced with any finds and artefacts to be donated to Bolton Museum.

The car parks to the rear of the site will remain open throughout the demolition period, however, the footpath linking Johnson Street and Newport Street has now permanently closed for safety reasons.

Cllr Andrew Fender, Chair of the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) Committee, said: “It is always exciting when a major project reaches a key milestone and these works move us a step closer to delivering major improvements for passengers while providing a modern, striking gateway to Bolton town centre.”

Demolition work is being carried out by contractors MJ Finnigan and is expected to be completed in early 2014.