Bolton: Changes proposed to Moor Lane 'masterplan' scheme

The Moor Lane scheme is one of the most ambitious projects Bolton has seen in recent years with plans to build a mixture of townhouses and apartments at the site of a former bus station.

But changes could see 10 more new homes built, bringing the total from 208 to 218, according to plans put by Euan Kellie Property Solutions.

A statement from associate director Phil Grant said: “The proposed replacement of the duplex units with apartments is required in the light of external agent advice received by the applicant, which indicated that there is no requirement for duplexes and an enhanced requirement for apartments in the local residential market.

“The other design changes proposed as part of the application are needed to address viability issues arising because of the grant funding position and increases in construction costs.

Changes to the plans will see ten extra homes built (Image: Bolton Council)

“If planning approval for the proposed changes cannot be secured, it will not be possible to construct Blocks 1 and 2 and the positive contribution that these elements of the development would make towards the regeneration of Bolton town centre and the wider local economy benefits they would deliver will be lost.”

Mr Grant’s company put in the application on behalf of FSG Moor Lane Bolton Developments Limited, a collaboration between housing provider Bolton at Home, property developer Step Places and Bolton Council to develop the area.

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Once finished the 10 extra flats will be available to rent on the open market.

The housing will be part of a wider scheme for the redevelopment of the area dubbed the town centre masterplan.

It focuses on three sites with the largest being the vacant bus station just off Moor Lane with two more sites to the east of Black Horse Street.

The scheme will also include new cycle paths and pedestrian routes aimed at making the area more accessible.

The plans for the extra flats were put before Bolton Council on March 28 and will be decided upon by the determination deadline on Tuesday April 25 this year.