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I’m not sure if you noticed but Bury Times recently reported that the limbo building that is the Grants Arms is being reviewed to be converted into office space by Bolton based Financial Advisors Group IFA. The Grants closed back in September 2017 and since then has remained in a deteriorating condition. There has been an attempt to turn the building into sheltered housing that was denied by council officers.
This is the current premises of Group IFA based out of Bradshaw in Bolton, image from Google Maps Streetview.
I’m honestly in two minds about this one. On the one hand, it’s sad to see the fantastic building sitting there wasting away when it has so much potential, potential that could easily be realised by the deep pockets of Group IFA. Then, on the other hand, it’s a bit sad that it’s been a hotel for so long and to remove a hotel from Ramsbottom which already has limited places to stay as it is seems to be a big shame.
What do you think? Do you think that to turn the Grants Arms from a pub/hotel into offices is worthwhile, as long as it saves the building? I’d love to hear your views with a comment below.
One example of a local pub which was successfully turned into offices is the Corner Pin in Stubbins where Elbow played their first gig, I’ve not heard anyone complaining about this since, have you?
To give you an idea of the history of the Grants Arms and what it means to Ramsbottom, I’ve included a clip from a video in the podcast that is available from the Ramsbottom Heritage Society.
[Read more…] about Should The Grant Arms be converted into offices? – Episode 114