A FORMER Bolton police station has been attracting substantial interest from developers ahead of it going under the hammer next week.

Prospective buyers, quick to spot the site’s development potential, have been queueing up to view Castle Street Police Station, which comes comlete with cell block, in The Haulgh, Bolton.

The station, which was built in 1874, is one of several Victorian stations being sold by Greater Manchester Police, to make way for more modern headquarters in the town. There were hopes in Bolton that the building, which still has many of its original features including a magistrates’ court and a block of six police cells, could be preserved and turned into a police museum.

But it has been decided by the police force that it should be sold off.

Auctioneers Pugh and Co, who are handling the sale of the 8,500 sq ft site, have set a guide price of between £325,000 and £375,000.

Paul Thompson, a director of the auctioneers, said: “There has been a high level of interest in this property because of its excellent location and obvious development potential.

“Several of those who have viewed the property have expressed interest in converting it for residential use.”

Posted: 11|28|06 at 9:19 am. Filed under: UK News.