Andy Burnham's £50million transformation of a UK high street has been dismissed as "unsuccessful from the get-go". Farnworth Green in Bolton was intended to be a flagship place for the town in Greater Manchester, with new homes leading the revitalisation of the local economy.

The development was backed by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority and built by property developer Capital&Centric. But according to reports, new shop premises lie empty at the regenerated site while a discount store and vape shops trade from premises which escaped attention across the road.

University worker, Leslie Williams, 63, told The Telegraph: "It's been unsuccessful from the get-go."

The development includes about 100 flats, 20,000 sq ft for shops and restaurants around a square, which shows little signs of life.

Ms Williams told the publication the buildings do not fit in with the area, arguing it is a working class town with a mining history and "people don't want posh".

A market was based at the site before the redevelopment, which saw traders moved on.

According to Ms Williams, there were plans for an artisan market but locals want a bargain not to pay £3.50 for a coffee.

Towns such as Bolton have come under the spotlight since Mr Burnham won the Makerfield by-election, catapulting him closer towards Downing Street.

The man widely considered to become the next prime minister is expected to take the vision applied to Greater Manchester, dubbed "Manchesterism", into No.10.

It seeks to harness private and public money to invest in areas such as transport, housing and infrastructure.

But while Mr Burnham has won praise from some for his role in revitalising and regenerating Manchester, Farnham Green appears to suggest not every town in the region has benefited.

Capital&Centric's co-founder defended being selective about which retailers are allowed to set up on the site and said it would be better for Farnworth Green in the long term.

Greater Manchester Combined Authority said the development has attracted hundreds of people and all the homes are let in full.

A spokesperson said high street regeneration requires patience and investment in such schemes help town centres in Greater Manchester adapt and create "thriving" communities.