Changes to former Farnworth NatWest building prompt concerns

Work has taken place former NatWest building, which sits on the corner of Market Street and Church Street in Farnworth.

It follows a previous planning application to build a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) on the site that was rejected.

The NatWest bank building at Market Street, Farnworth, has been vacant since the branch closed in May 2025.

Rob Tyler, who spotted the work, said: “The structure appears highly incongruous with the character of the original building, consisting of modern corrugated metal and industrial-style shutters.

“Its appearance is starkly at odds with the historic red-brick façade and detailing of the former bank.”

The work seems to be controversial. (Image: Paul Sanders)

The building had plans previously to be turned into a seven-bedroom HMO.

The applicant said at the time, the change of use of the building would introduce “residential accommodation within a predominantly commercial building, supporting a mixed-use environment and ensuring the long-term viable use of a currently vacant property.”

Mr Tyler added: “From a public perspective, the addition has significantly impacted the visual character of this prominent corner site.

“Rather than enhancing or sensitively adapting a listed building, the new structure gives the impression of a temporary or makeshift installation and detracts from the overall appearance of the town centre.

“Given the importance of maintaining the character of Farnworth’s historic buildings, I believe this issue is of wider public interest.”

Shutters on the former NatWest building. (Image: Paul Sanders)

Concerns have also been raised about the shutters causing an aesthetic dampener on the once rich historic architecture.

The company behind this expansion, or individual, is not yet known.

The building, of Victorian origin, has long been admired by many Farnworth residents for its architectural merits.

It first opened as a branch of the Bank of Bolton, designed by architect George Woodhouse in 1877.

A spokesperson for Bolton Council said: “The property is not listed and not in a Conservation Area.

“The development of a front extension requires planning permission and there is currently no planning application in place for this.

“Planning Enforcement has opened an investigation into the matter.”