Plans to create flats above Bolton restaurant submitted

The proposal relates to 172–174 Crook Street, a three-storey property formerly known as the Church Hotel.

The ground floor is currently occupied by Baba Jee’s restaurant which is temporarily closed, with office space above.

Developers are seeking prior approval from Bolton Council to convert the first and second floors into eight self-contained flats, with four units on each floor.

The ground floor restaurant would remain unchanged.

Proposed layouts of the flats (Image: Bolton Council)

Planning documents state the scheme would create four flats on each of the upper floors, with bin and cycle storage provided at the rear.

No external alterations to the building are proposed.

The site sits just outside Bolton town centre in a mixed-use area close to the main transport interchange.

Applicants say the location is sustainable and well connected, with seven parking spaces included in the plans.

A previous proposal to turn the upper floors into an 18-bedroom house in multiple occupation (HMO) was refused in November 2025.

In the supporting statement, the applicant argues the development meets national permitted development rules and would provide acceptable living conditions, including adequate natural light and protection from noise.

The building is not listed and is not within a conservation area or flood risk zone, according to the application.

Bolton Council will now assess the plans, with residents able to comment before a decision is made.