PROJECT UPDATE: THE FORMER COOP, BOLSOVER TOWN CENTRE

Bolsover is a town built on stories - of industry, resilience, and creativity. Now, one of its most prominent buildings, the former Co-op site, is at the centre of a new chapter.

We are working to design and deliver a landmark hub that celebrates Bolsover’s unique identity, reflects the voices of local people, and contributes to a broader place-based cultural and economic transformation of the town.

We are disappointed that we have experienced significant damage on the Coop site, with trespassers gaining access, stripping the substation, and removing materials from the building. These damages will hinder progress and impact potential for investment. It will certainly delay plans for using the space for events and activity, short-term.

The hoarding erected around the old Coop site in Bolsover is to secure the site and help prevent further vandalism and damage. An option being considered is to transform the site into a new Creative Hub, with flexible use for artists, community groups and events and we are working closely with stakeholders to maximise the impact of one of Bolsover’s most prominent buildings. We will be starting a public consultation soon to find out what residents think should be done with the prominent site.

This site sits at a key junction in the town, linking Town End, the library, high street, and onward to Bolsover Castle. The Creative Hub has the potential to become a cultural gateway, drawing people into the town centre and creating new opportunities for local enterprise, tourism, and community life.

We’ll be sharing more details soon about how you can take part in the consultation and creative engagement activities. This is your chance to help shape a space that reflects Bolsover’s past, present, and future.