Bolton’s iconic elephants will make a triumphant return as the council aims to guarantee everyone a warm welcome to the town centre.
The trio will be restored to their original home on Newport Street ensuring they are one of the first things travellers see as they exit Bolton Interchange.
The fully restored and repainted models are part of a series of projects designed to make the centre more vibrant and welcoming for residents, commuters and visitors.
Other schemes include a large double-sided LED screen to be installed in the public space outside the interchange, providing passersby with information about Bolton’s upcoming events, local attractions and civic history.
It will also help new arrivals to find their way around, complementing the new wayfinding totems added across the town centre.
Other schemes designed to make the town centre more vibrant will be funded by Pride in Place Impact Fund.
The council will work with artists on a series of town centre murals to celebrate Bolton’s history and the many local musicians, performers and sporting heroes.
Upgraded outdoor power units will be installed in Victoria Square to support major outdoor events.
Other improvements include new outdoor seating and the renovation of the public space outside the new Wellsprings Innovation Hub.
These projects are in addition to new health and safety measures including improved street lighting, CCTV networks and defibrillators that have already been installed.
Bolton has a long and historic association with the elephant emblem with examples ranging from town hall carvings to statues.
Theories link it to trade with India, as well as the adoption of the Elephant and Castle from the Arms of Coventry to symbolise strength and dignity.
Local children named the three colourful elephants on Newport Street Ellie, Elmer and Mister Jackbow, following a public competition.
Bolton Council Leader, Cllr Nick Peel, said:
“Bolton deserves a town centre we can all be proud of and this council has been working hard to transform the heart of our borough.
“Not just with major regeneration schemes like Moor Lane, Deansgate Gardens or the upcoming Crompton Place project but also by revitalising the spaces in between.
“We are creating a vibrant and welcoming town centre that celebrates our heritage and unique identity.”