Cllr Cliff Morris, leader of Bolton Council, answers your concerns. 

THIS is the first of a new monthly column in which I will try to respond to questions which I know many residents have and to explain some of the things the council is doing to keep Bolton moving forward.

One thing I am always asked is “what is the council doing about Bolton town centre?”

A thriving town centre is good for us all – driving our local economy and giving us a focus and identity.

There are big challenges facing town centres across the UK – many more people shop online or out-of-town; and a lot of shops are owned by investors who are not based in Bolton, with unrealistic expectations of the rents they can charge – so we have seen some shops close.

We are doing what we can to get empty units back into use, or at least cleaned up so the centre looks more attractive.

This has started to pay off, with some exciting new shops opening up. But a town centre is not just about shops – it is a mix of attractions that make it a good place to visit.

The cinema at the Market Place will be open by Christmas, alongside exciting new restaurants and shops.

I hope this will help attract different audiences, especially in the evenings and on weekends.

I understand the frustration that people feel and I will do my best to keep explaining how the council is trying to make a difference.

But we need Bolton people to support the town centre – our businesses need you to shop, drink, eat and visit.

Our 10th Food and Drink Festival this weekend will be a huge event, so why not come and show your support for our town centre?