TWO huge estates could be built in Bolton after a developer formally submitted plans for more than 250 new homes on two separate sites.

Northstone has lodged its third plan to development at Horwich Golf Club, proposing 150 houses, parkland space, and areas for community use.

Two previous applications have been unsuccessful with a swathe of public objections leading Bolton planners unanimously rejecting a far bigger plan for 276 homes in January.

That application followed a planning inquiry into its original 300 house plan, where a government inspector said the plans were unacceptable.

Earlier this year when throwing out a second bid, councillors said the development would be inappropriate for the protected site, raising concerns about traffic.

Northstone is appealing that decision but has also drawn up the present scaled down plans alongside that process.

The firm claims to have made ‘significant changes’ to address the concerns, and wants another public inquiry into the second refusal.

At the same time Northstone has also lodged plans to build 108 homes at Garnet Fold Farm in Bolton.

That land, located off St Helens Road and next to the Burns Animal Foods factory, has been earmarked for residential development by Bolton Council.

For the Horwich Golf Club site, Northstone, say they will create 15-acre area of ecological and recreational green space, which will be accessible to the community and help to fund improvements of the Beehive roundabout and contribute financially to schools.

A Northstone spokesman, said: “As part of the consultation process the community were asked what types of facilities they would like in the green space.

“Much of the feedback has been incorporated into our design.

“New tree planting, creating areas of meadow grassland and improvements along the watercourse, Nellie’s Clough are all elements included in the plan.

“Overall, the proposals would provide a significant improvement on the existing ecological value of the site.

“The site could also include an orchard or food growing area for the community.

Jonathan England, development director at Northtsone, said: “We would like to thank all those who engaged with the pre-application consultation to provide their views.

“The feedback received will help us with the development of detailed plans for this site, including a new community green space that can be used and enjoyed by all.”

Northstone plans for Garnet Fold farm include a mix of housing types and sizes for time buyers, families and those looking to downsize to a smaller property.

They said the estate would have ‘pedestrian-led streets help to reduce traffic speeds and encourage a sense of community’.

Ward councillor, Kevin McKeon, who represents Horwich North East where the golf club is, said: “It’s the settled opinion of myself and I beleive the majority of Horwich residents that this area remains open fields.

“The latest plans are an improvement on what’s been submitted before but the site has protected status and I am supporting efforts for it to be designated as green belt to further protect it.”