BOLTON’S proposed £48 million transport interchange has been given the green light by planning chiefs.

Transport for Greater Manchester’s plans for the interchange include ecofriendly power-saving schemes and a cycle station with shower and changing facilities.

A high-level pedestrian bridge between the train and bus station will also be covered to protect passengers from the weather.

The bridge will be wide enough to accommodate large volumes of people, although there will not be a “travelator” similar to those seen at airports.

The new interchange will also incorporate rainwater recycling, solar panels, air source heat pumps and low-energy LED lighting.

A Town Hall planning meeting yesterday heard the existing bus station in Moor Lane would provide opportunity for retail, leisure and office development.

Cllr Nick Peel said: “A lot of hard work has gone into this application. It is superior in every way to the existing bus station.

“There is a real issue with security at the current station. It is far more than a bus station, it is an all-singing, all-dancing interchange and it represents a massive investment in Bolton.

“It cannot be underestimated the effect this will have on the regeneration of this side of the town centre.”

Plans have also been made to ensure there will be access and waiting facilities for weddings and funerals at St Patrick’s Church.

A compulsory purchase order was granted to TfGM in 2011.

The interchange is due to be built by 2015.