BUILDING work has officially started on plans to transform a popular town centre pub.

Scaffolding has been erected around The Balmoral Pub, in Bradshawgate, as hospitality firm the Craft Union Pub Company is set to renovate the well-known venue.

The company says it will work to maintain the tradition and the heritage of the pub as well as offering live sports.

Cllr Martyn Cox, deputy leader of Bolton Council and executive cabinet member for regeneration, said that firms looking to spend money and aid in the regeneration of the town centre are "welcome".

"Anyone that owns and runs property in the town centre that is investing money is welcome," Cllr Cox said.

"It's sensible because there's an awful lot that's going to be going on in the next few years.

"The town centre is about to undergo a lot of change and anyone getting involved is making a good decision."

Craft Union says its plans for The Balmoral will see the pub become an important part of the community.

It was revealed in January that the pub firm, owned by EI Group PLC, would be shutting the venue this summer while it is renovated - with landlady Anita Kirkman set to move on after eight years.

Speaking after the company purchased the building, a spokesman said: "We are delighted to be taking over The Balmoral, Bolton this summer.

"We believe that the British pub plays a vital role in the lives of its customers and our philosophy at Craft Union is to put brilliant pubs back at the heart of local communities.

"We are committed to nurturing this by investing in the pub by ensuring that we retain the tradition and the heritage alongside improving the quality of the community offer with great products at great prices, along with premium sports and entertainment.”

Further details about when the pub is set to reopen are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks.