Major Residential Development Planned Near M61 to Alleviate Traffic

Plans have been submitted for a significant residential development named Lee Hall, located near the M61 motorway in Westhoughton. The proposal, put forth by Peel Land, aims to construct 1,450 homes, a new relief road, and a 15-acre public park. This initiative follows a public consultation held in October, during which local residents expressed their views on the project.

The development includes the construction of a new Park Avenue link road, designed to alleviate congestion at the Chequerbent roundabout. Peel Land asserts that this new road will significantly enhance traffic flow in the area. In particular, studies suggest it could reduce peak journey times between the M61 and the roundabout by as much as six minutes. Without this infrastructure, traffic modelling indicates that delays could increase substantially, with morning and evening peak times becoming four to five times longer due to planned growth in the Northfold corridor.

This proposal is part of the larger Northfold growth initiative aimed at improving housing and infrastructure across Bolton and Wigan. Peel Land emphasizes that the Lee Hall project will help address the longstanding shortage of housing in Bolton, bringing much-needed family and affordable homes to the area. Furthermore, the development is expected to create approximately 480 permanent jobs on-site and generate additional employment opportunities during the construction phase.

Community Benefits and Historical Context

The plans also outline the construction of a community hub that will cater to local groups, charities, and clubs, alongside the possibility of establishing a new primary school and a care home. According to Nick Graham, Associate Planning Director at Peel Land, the community has voiced a strong need for solutions to the traffic issues at Chequerbent, which have persisted for decades.

Graham 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.” He further explained that the proposed development fulfills a vision first set out nearly 60 years ago, as identified in the 1968 Urban Structure Plan for Westhoughton. This plan has seen various iterations over the years but has not yet been realized.

Importantly, none of the proposed residential development will encroach upon the green belt, ensuring that local environmental considerations remain a priority. Peel Land asserts that the current plans will deliver on this longstanding vision for Westhoughton, facilitating infrastructure-led growth that promises substantial benefits for both existing and future residents.

Next Steps for Approval

Planners in Bolton are set to review the submitted plans in the coming months, with the potential for a decision that could transform the local landscape. If approved, the Lee Hall development could not only provide housing but also enhance community facilities and improve traffic conditions in Westhoughton, marking a significant step forward in addressing the area’s needs.