Major Development Proposed: 1,450 Homes and New Road Near M61

Plans have been submitted for a significant residential development named Lee Hall in Westhoughton, close to the M61 motorway. Developed by Peel Land, the proposal includes the construction of 1,450 homes, a new link road, and a public park, following a public consultation held in October.

This residential project aims to ease traffic congestion at the Chequerbent roundabout by introducing the new Park Avenue link road. The road is designed to improve local transport links and is anticipated to reduce peak journey times between the M61 and Chequerbent by as much as six minutes. Peel Land stated that traffic modelling indicates without this new road, delays in the area could increase significantly during rush hours.

The broader context for the Lee Hall project is the Northfold growth initiative, which encompasses developments across Bolton and Wigan. According to Peel, this initiative represents a long-awaited response to a persistent housing shortage in Bolton. The proposed residential units will include a mix of family and affordable homes aimed at addressing local housing needs.

In addition to residential units, the plans include new employment spaces designed to support the local economy. If approved, the project is expected to create approximately 480 permanent jobs on-site, as well as numerous temporary positions during the construction phase.

Infrastructure Improvements and Community Benefits

The Lee Hall development promises to deliver infrastructure-led growth, which Peel argues is essential for the future of Westhoughton. The need for enhanced road links and residential options has been noted since the 1968 Urban Structure Plan for Westhoughton, but previous plans have not come to fruition.

Nick Graham, associate planning director at Peel Land, highlighted the community’s strong demand for solutions to the traffic issues at Chequerbent. He stated, “Our recent public consultation highlighted the community’s strong desire for a solution to the longstanding traffic woes at Chequerbent, which we know will only increase over time.”

The plans also envision a new public park for Westhoughton, a community hub for local organizations, and the potential establishment of a new primary school. These features are designed to foster community engagement and provide essential services for both current and future residents.

Planners in Bolton are expected to make a decision on the proposals in the coming months. If approved, the Lee Hall development could significantly transform the area, providing much-needed housing and infrastructure improvements while addressing longstanding community concerns.