What is Health Innovation Bolton?
Health Innovation Bolton is a strategic development programme that brings together local partners, universities, health providers and industry to accelerate innovation, support skills, and strengthen the borough’s long-term economic resilience.
HIB is located within the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton, close to both Farnworth Town Centre and Bolton Town Centre, both of which are the subject of major regeneration plans. HIB adjoins several communities in the Boroughs of Bolton, Wigan and Salford - including neighbourhoods which are some of the 10% most deprived in England.
Given this context, the development seeks to address entrenched socio-economic and health inequalities and will do this leveraging the existing investment already made in, and the future growth and resilience of, two public sector anchors - the Royal Bolton Hospital and Bolton Institute of Medical Sciences (BIMS). In addition, HIB will also provide complementary commercial space for employment and innovation, housing and supporting infrastructure.
Why Bolton?
Located at the heart of the NorthFold strategic growth corridor, the project benefits from strong transport links, proximity to leading research institutions and a community rich in ambition and potential.
Strategic Objectives
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Healthier Communities
Improve health outcomes by connecting research, clinical practice and community wellbeing
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Innovation & Growth
Attract and retain high-growth businesses in health, digital and advanced technology.
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Homes, Jobs & Skills
Create new housing, high-quality jobs and training opportunities.
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Sustainable Places
Develop green, sustainable infrastructure and connected public spaces.
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A Stronger Greater Manchester
Strengthen Bolton’s role within Greater Manchester’s wider economic growth strategy.
What HIB
will Deliver
Economic Benefits
£1bn+ investment into Bolton and the wider GM economy
Job creation across health, tech, construction, research and community sectors
A stronger local business ecosystem
Social & Community Benefits
Better access to healthcare and wellbeing support
Opportunities for skills development and lifelong learning
Enhanced green spaces and public realm
Environmental Benefits
Greener travel routes and improved biodiversity
Low-carbon infrastructure
Sustainable development principles
Regional Impact
Supporting Greater Manchester’s NorthFold corridor and contributing to long-term, inclusive regional growth.
A Partnership Built for Impact
HIB is guided by a cross-sector partnership representing:
The public sector
NHS and health providers
Local universities
Private sector and innovation partners
Community organisations
