Horwich: Telford Street green space land could be set for sell-off

The land off Telford Street in Horwich was originally put forward for a potential sell-off in 2020 before this was rejected in October the same year, following complaints about the loss of land for children and families to play on.

But now the land, which is said to be one of the few green spaces in a built up area, mainly made up of terraced housing, has once again been 'recommended for disposal' prompting further objections.

Cllr Richard Silvester, who represents the area on Bolton Council, said: “I am rather shocked that this land disposal has returned.

“I objected to the disposal of this site originally in October 2020 and I still object now to the disposal of this site.

“It is well used by local residents for recreation and local children to play on for various sports.

“The site is not contained within Bolton Council’s allocations plan or designated for any housing, its loss would be a blow to the local community and another area of green open space lost.

He added: “I therefore do not understand why this has been brought back as absolutely nothing has changed and the Covid pandemic proved that this open green space is much valued.”

Opponents of the sell off have also argued that the land could have the potential to host child’s play groups.

Cllrs Kevin McKeon and Richard Silvester are both objecting to the proposal

Cllr Kevin McKeon said: “The open space has been used for generations by local residents for recreation. 

“The land is situated in quite a built-up area of predominantly terraced housing so its disposal would in my view have a detrimental impact on the amenity of local residents.

He added: “I think the land off Telford Street could well be a site that a new resident’s group will want to improve for increased opportunities for leisure and wellbeing.”

Bolton Council’s will now consider the plan with commercial, regeneration and social value in mind with a decision set to be announced in the coming months.