BOLTON’S new £48 million transport interchange is getting close to completion.

The Bolton News was invited inside the ongoing project at the corner of Great Moor Street and Newport Street which transport bosses hope will create a modern new hub for the town.

Work on the main concourse building is expected to be completed by the end of the year. Foundations are currently being laid for the showpiece skylink bridge which will transport people between the interchange and Bolton Train Station.

Transport for Greater Manchester, which is carrying out the scheme in conjunction with Bolton Council, is confident that the entire facility will be ready to use by the public around May.

As these photographs show, the interchange has been designed to allow as much natural light in as possible, with a state-of-the-art Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene roof and external glazing surrounding the main concourse.

TfGM has said it aims to provide a modern facility that is accessible for all.

It is creating numerous special features to help people with disabilities, such as a Changing Places bathroom facility for adults with particular needs.

The principal contractor on the project is Kier, while the Skylink aspect is being put together by Network Rail’s contractor the Murphy Group.

It has been revealed that Bolton Council will also be carrying out adjustments to the surrounding roads and pavements to assist with accessibility to the new interchange.

Bolton Council’s cabinet member for transport and special projects, Cllr David Chadwick said: “Every time I come here there is a wow factor, the place is so light and airy, it looks fantastic.

“I am sure that the citizens of Bolton will be very impressed when they come to use the interchange.

“We are making every effort to make this facility as inclusive for everyone as well.”