Bolton: New block of student flats planned on Fletcher Street

If approved, the new five storey block will be built on Fletcher Street and will include 87 studio flats, with communal areas and parking spaces.

The site is close to the University of Bolton, which planners say means they could prove ideal for students looking to make their homes in the area and marks another step in the university’s ongoing growth.

An artist's impression of the new five storey block

Bolton Council cabinet member for regeneration Cllr Adele Warren said: “Obviously the better the university is and the better the facilities are, then were more able to develop then skills we need in the borough naturally.

“It helps if we’re able to bring high skilled people into the borough as well but the university also does a lot of work with people from the region as well.

“No one is ever too old to upskill themselves and that’s why its good that’s we’ve got this right on our doorstep.”

As well as the university itself, the new block of flats will also be close to the students’ union building and to Bolton University Technical College and Bolton College.

According to the architects, the studio flats will all include en-suite shower rooms and kitchenettes.

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The shared areas will include a communal lounge and a group study room, while the four parking spaces will primarily be used for visitors and for deliveries rather than cars owned by students.

A plan of how the building will be laid out

A statement from David Cox Architects said: “The site is ideally suited for proximity to the university, the town centre along with bus routes, the bus station and the railway station.

“It is visible from key access routes; ensuring it is easy to find for visitors and new residents.

“It is a brownfield site and an efficient use of the land available.”

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The plans will now be open for consultations until August 23.

After this then will then be put before Bolton Council for consideration before the planning committee makes a final decision.