THE University of Bolton’s new Students’ Union building could become one of the borough’s premier gig venues.

The £2 million building will officially open on September 28, and Students’ Union president Mark Higgins says it will be a focal point for the students and the wider community.

Local and student bands are signed up to perform at the opening of the building on University Way.

And there are plans to use the venue to attract other bands on the national music circuit.

Mr Higgins said: “A new bigger building was needed to keep up with the pace of growth of the university and to centralise student services.

He added: “The space, which is the size of a football pitch, means there is the possibility to stage, not only events for the students, but also the local community.

“This was not possible in the other building, and now one of the ideas is to attract bands to the Students Union building.

“Given its size, it could become one of the town’s main venues for bands and other events.”

The two-storey building was funded by the university and Students’ Union.

Facilities include a bar and cafe and a new Social Learning Zone with a library.