Amir Khan's Bolton Wedding Venue Up for Sale After Just Three Months
Former world champion boxer Amir Khan has put his newly opened wedding venue in his hometown of Bolton on the market, just three months after its launch.
The news was announced on Thursday via Khan's X (formerly Twitter) account, where he stated, "Looking to sell my wedding hall for £12.5 million."
The venue, known as Balmayna, has sparked both praise and controversy since its opening. The four-storey complex, which boasts a 200-vehicle car park and a palm tree-lined exterior, has been lauded for its investment in the local area. However, critics have argued that the 800-capacity venue, situated on Washington Street amidst residential homes and vehicle maintenance businesses, is out of place.
Balmayna's social media profile describes the venue as a "luxury wedding and events venue," and its official website claims it is "the brainchild of Amir Khan."
Khan, who rose to fame at the tender age of 17 after securing an Olympic silver medal, partnered with local businessman Mohammad Jaberansari on the project. Planning permission was granted in 2013, but numerous setbacks led to significant cost overruns, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.
Mr Jaberansari recently revealed to a licensing panel that he had invested £6m in the project, while Khan had reportedly spent £10m. They both emphasised their commitment to improving the area and creating around 100 jobs at the venue.
"These sorts of venues, you normally expect them near London, not in Bolton, but I would rather invest in my hometown," Mr Jaberansari said.
Khan celebrated the venue's opening in June, stating that it came "after blood, sweat and tears."
The BBC has contacted Khan's representatives for a comment on the decision to sell the venue.
