Massive scheme to transform historic estate could boost economy by £1.2bn
A public inquiry will hear how a major development scheme could be worth as much as £1.2bn to the local economy.
Developer Peel L&P has prepared new evidence ahead of a public inquiry which starts next month in support of its plans for the historic Hulton Park estate, in Bolton.
Peel wants to open an international golf destination in 2025 capable of hosting the Ryder Cup in 2030 or 2034.
The developer also wants to build 1,000 new homes on the site.
A socio-economic impact study shows that the overall impact of Hulton Park and the Ryder Cup programme would be £1.2 billion, bringing huge benefits to Bolton, Greater Manchester and the North West.
Evidence from ecologists, heritage experts and transport advisors will also show that the project is highly sustainable and will enhance the local area.
Richard Knight, planning director for Peel L&P said: “For nearly 50 years Peel has been turning regeneration visions into a reality from retail schemes to new iconic waterfront destinations. We take great pride in the positive legacies we are creating and our plans for Hulton Park are no exception.
“The reality is that the Hulton Park Estate is in long term decline and is in need of major investment.
“We are looking forward to presenting our case at the Public Inquiry. What we’re presenting is a special and transformational opportunity which will help tackle some of the major challenges around skills, infrastructure, productivity, wages, participation and health. The social and economic impact and legacy of creating a new world class golf destination in Greater Manchester would be enormous.
“We are committed to implementing and managing the development responsibly which has been designed to specifically cater for the Ryder Cup and other major tournaments. The work we’ve put in gives it the best possible chance of being chosen as a future venue. If permission is granted, the development would only be implemented if the right to host the Ryder Cup were awarded. It is well within our capabilities to deliver it.”
The project has the approval of Bolton Council and the support of a number of national and local partners, including England Golf, local sports and tourism bodies, local universities and business groups.
The PGA European Tour ultimately decide on the host venue for the Ryder Cup in conjunction with host nation Governments and venues.
The scheme will include 1,000 new homes within a sustainable community is essential in order to deliver the wider heritage, social and economic benefits and will make a substantial contribution to meet local housing needs.
Peel L&P is committed to delivering 10% affordable housing, potentially increasing to 35% dependent on the scheme’s viability.
The proposed luxury hotel, spa and conference centre is located over the footprint of the original Hulton Hall and has been designed to give the park a focal point and reflect the style of a traditional English Country House.
The estate’s original roads and footpaths will be retained and utilised for the hotel with the lake and its surrounding lawn areas, landscaped and fully restored to the east, west and south.
The proposed Academy will be easily accessible and will house key facilities for the local community.
In partership with the Bolton Council a package of transport improvements will be delivered to encourage sustainable travel and improve accessibility to the site
A link road between Chequerbent and Platt Lane will cut down on congestion at Chequerbent roundabout, significantly reducing current delays at Park Road/Platt Lane junction.
