THE first businesses set to move into the former Beales department store are expected to open their doors in the next two months.

Work is underway at the grade-II listed building as a menswear retailer and dessert parlour prepare to move in.

Slater’s Menswear will be relocating its business from its current premises in Oxford Street to the unit in Deansgate.

The Bolton News understands that the retailer is expecting to open its new store by the end of May.

The Scottish family-run business has asked for planning permission to make alterations to the front entrance of the store such as new sliding doors and roller shutters.

Meanwhile, Heavenly Desserts is looking set to open its first Bolton store in late June.

The dessert parlour, which was granted planning permission in January, will be the franchise’s 12th store in the UK.

The menu, which is described as “irresistable, elegant and innovative”, includes a range of pancakes, waffles, fondants, cakes and artisan slices as well as an artisan tea range, coffee and soft drinks.

New store openings manager Eden Falconer said: “Heavenly Desserts is all about using the best ingredients, creating the perfect desserts and giving our guests the dessert experience of a lifetime.

“It’s a treat that allows visitors to indulge whether for a celebration, or just to catch up with friends – and We can’t wait to open the doors for those across Bolton and beyond to enjoy.”

A sign advertising job opportunities is already up in the shop window. A total of 20 new roles have been created.

The developments have been welcomed by Bolton Civic Trust.

Acting chairman Richard Shirres said: "We welcome a re-use of the building. It's a key stone building in the town."

The council's executive cabinet member for corporate resources Aktar Zaman also welcomed the news.

He said: "It's important to preserve historic buildings as much as possible because this is our heritage."

Beales, formerly known as Whitakers, closed on New Year’s Eve two years ago and has been vacant ever since.

There are other units still available for commercial use within the building.