Key Points
· Bolton Council is consulting on the initial stages of a new Local Plan to shape future sustainable development in the borough.
· The consultation covers scope, vision, issues, and options and is scheduled for Spring 2025.
· The Local Plan aims to guide where and how new development is built, including housing, infrastructure, and protecting green spaces.
· Bolton's Local Plan must align with the National Planning Policy Framework and the Greater Manchester Places for Everyone Plan.
· The council is seeking public input early in the process as part of their statutory consultation obligations.
· The draft Local Plan consultation is planned for Autumn 2025 with publication targeted for Summer 2026.
· Adoption of the plan is anticipated in Winter 2027 following examination hearings in Spring/Summer 2027.
· The review follows legislative requirements including the Preparation of a Local Development Scheme (LDS) and a Sustainability Appraisal.
· Neighbourhood Plans for areas like Blackrod, Horwich, and Over Hulton are designated to complement the Local Plan.
· The council emphasises that the plan will support wider council and Vision partners’ aims including addressing housing, economy, community facilities, infrastructure, environment, and climate change adaptation.
What is the purpose of Bolton Council's Local Plan consultation?
As reported by Jon Dyson, Director of Place at Bolton Council, the council has initiated the first stage of consultation on the Local Plan to establish a planning strategy for the borough's future sustainable development. This early consultation focuses on gathering evidence, clarifying the scope, vision, and identifying key issues and options for development and land use in Bolton. The aim is to engage with the community, stakeholders, and partners to shape a plan that addresses local needs and opportunities.
The Local Plan will set out broad locations and specific allocations for various land uses, such as residential, industrial, community facilities, and green spaces, primarily within urban areas. Importantly, it serves as a critical framework for planning decisions and wider investment strategies across the borough.
How will the consultation process be conducted and what are the timelines?
Bolton Council's consultation follows regulation 18 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012. The first consultation on "scope, vision, issues and options" is scheduled for Spring 2025. This will be followed by a draft plan consultation in Autumn 2025 allowing the public and stakeholders to comment on proposed policies and proposals. Publication of the final plan is expected in Summer 2026.
The formal submission of the Local Plan will occur in Winter 2026, triggering independent examination hearings by the Planning Inspectorate in Spring/Summer 2027. The final adoption of the plan by Bolton Council is projected for Winter 2027. The council stresses that the timing of the examination and report by the Planning Inspectorate is beyond their control.
What legislation and policies guide the preparation of Bolton's Local Plan?
Bolton Council must prepare the Local Plan in conformity with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and the Greater Manchester Places for Everyone Plan, a joint development plan that contains regional policies replacing some of Bolton’s previous strategic policies. The preparation process is governed by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and relevant regulations, including requirements for consultation, community involvement, and sustainability appraisal.
The council has a Statement of Community Involvement (SCI), updated in 2022, which sets out how public engagement will be conducted. Sustainability Appraisal is integral throughout, ensuring that the plan reflects sustainability and environmental considerations as per legislation.
What role do Neighbourhood Plans play in Bolton's overall planning framework?
Neighbourhood Plans are community-led frameworks allowed under the Localism Act 2011, designed to complement the strategic Local Plan. They must be in general conformity with Bolton's adopted development plan and require an independent examination and public referendum for approval. Once ‘made,’ they become part of the development plan for the borough.
Bolton Council has designated neighbourhood areas in Blackrod, Horwich, and Over Hulton. The Blackrod Neighbourhood Plan was formally adopted in June 2021, while Over Hulton's plan is under examination following the appointment of an examiner in May 2024. However, the timetable for neighbourhood plans is generally outside the direct control of the council and thus not included in the Local Development Scheme (LDS) timetable.
How does Bolton Council plan to ensure sustainability and community engagement?
Throughout the Local Plan process, Bolton Council commits to comprehensive sustainability appraisal to evaluate environmental, social, and economic impacts. This includes producing appraisal reports to guide plan development. Community engagement is a statutory requirement, governed by Bolton’s SCI, which aims to maximise opportunities for public participation at all key stages.
The council encourages broad public input during the initial consultation phase, which includes surveys and opportunities for residents to share their views on local challenges and priorities. This engagement supports the vision for a sustainable and inclusive future for Bolton.
What strategic priorities will the new Local Plan address?
Jon Dyson explained that the Local Plan will underpin Bolton Council's broader agenda, including tackling inequality and poverty, supporting housing needs, economic development, and ensuring community facilities and infrastructure are fit for the future. It will also incorporate measures for environmental protection, climate change adaptation, and promoting good design standards.
The plan aims to balance growth with safeguarding the borough’s character and natural assets, ensuring Bolton remains a sustainable and thriving place for residents and businesses alike.
Who is responsible for preparing the Local Plan and what resources are involved?
Bolton Council’s Planning Strategy Team is primarily responsible for preparing the Local Plan with input from specialist council departments and external consultants where expertise is required. The Local Development Scheme outlines clear milestones aimed at minimising delays and ensuring compliance with national procedures. The council recognises risks such as changes to national planning policy and new procedural requirements, which it aims to mitigate through ongoing monitoring and adjustments.