Public urged to have their say on Horwich Golf Club housing plans

Members of the public are being invited to have their say on proposals to deliver homes at Horwich Golf Club site in Bolton by Peel L&P.

The property giant and its housing division Northstone secured outline consent following an appeal against Bolton Council’s decision to reject outline housing bids for the land.

It will see the development of 276 homes to be built on the golf course off Victoria Road.

The homebuilder is now looking to bring forward its Reserved Matters application over part of the site, which provides full detail about the layout and design of the homes and public open space.

The plans would transform the previously private land into a sustainable extension to the community, creating an initial 208 high-quality, energy efficient new homes and apartments in a range of styles and sizes to meet the needs of local people.

71 (34%) of the properties will be affordable homes to meet local housing need and help those currently struggling to get onto the housing ladder.

The housing mix has been shaped in consultation with Bolton at Home.

In addition, existing woodland will be retained and enhanced to maximise biodiversity and new links created to existing Public Rights of Way.

Joanna Allen, Head of Partnerships and Development for Northstone, said: “Northstone wants to set a high standard for new, sustainable homes in this part of Bolton and we now want to hear how residents would like us to develop the detail of this already consented scheme to suit their needs and ambitions of the community.

“We’re excited to open up the site for new public space, footpaths, play areas and trees to allow new and existing residents to enjoy the natural environment surrounding their homes.

“Residents can view our virtual exhibition to find out more, ask questions, and submit their feedback to help us shape the final proposals before we submit a detailed planning application in the coming months.”

Peel L&P acquired Horwich Golf Club in 2012 and has since helped to keep the struggling business running for the past eight years.

The nine-hole golf course, which is open to members only, is due to close in 2023 when the funding support ends.

The site has been subject to two planning applications from Northstone and Peel L&P in the past, and already has outline consent for residential development following a decision from the Planning Inspectorate in September 2021.