Hidden River Under Bolton Could Soon Be Open to the Public

Bolton has a hidden river called the River Croal. It mostly flows underground downtown. The river runs under some busy streets. A new housing project will improve the river area.

The Deansgate Gardens project is on Central Street. Placefirst is building this new area, and they plan to expose part of the riverbank. People will enjoy a path with seats and lights, and they are also adding cycle parking near the river.

The plan includes removing an existing wall to widen the river for flood control. New plants will grow along the riverbank while Deansgate Gardens offers apartments and townhouses with 167 rental homes available.

The finished project will have rooftop gardens and a special yoga area for residents. Placefirst will manage the public spaces and upkeep the landscaping.

The development includes new public areas and improves the River Croal’s embankment. An apartment building faces Deansgate, while townhouses run from the river to a square.

The design prioritizes pedestrian walkways and is improving existing roads around the site. Palatine Street will become a walking zone, creating a public space between buildings.

The estate has a residents-only parking area with twenty spaces north of the townhouses. Placefirst will manage the neighborhood after building, and a manager will oversee resident services full-time.

The River Croal flows into the River Irwell, traveling east through Bolton. Their meeting point is at Nob End, Kearsley, and the river’s total length is roughly ten miles.