New five-storey student flats set to be built in Bolton town centre

A new five-storey student accommodation block of 87 apartments could be built in Bolton town centre. A planning application has been lodged which seeks to construct the new block on land at Fletcher Street, close to the University of Bolton campus.

The application, from Preston-based Basil St Properties Ltd, seeks permission for a five-storey building to house students. Each of the 87 studio apartments would have an en-suite shower room and kitchenette.

There would also be a communal lounge and group study room. A parking area is proposed to the rear of the site for just four vehicles, the application said that they were to be primarily used by visitors, staff and for deliveries.

A previous scheme for student accommodation has been approved on the site for 103 student bedrooms grouped as cluster of flats, but that has not proceeded. A design and access statement in support of the plans, said: “The site is ideally suited for proximity to the university, the town centre along with bus routes, the bus station and the railway station.

“It is visible from key access routes ensuring it is easy to find for visitors and new residents. It is a brownfield site and an efficient use of the land available.

“Although the scale and appearance are not as sympathetic to the immediate surroundings as the previously approved application, the appearance and scale is characteristic of the wider area and appropriate for the town centre development in this location.

“Since the previous application was approved the university has continued to develop its campus, significantly increasing the average scale of development in the local area. The most prominent and public elevation faces onto Fletcher Street and can also be seen from Derby Street.

“The main entrance is located here as it is the most visible for visitors and the most convenient for the residents walking to the university.”

Five of the rooms are designed as accessible bedrooms for the use of residents with restricted mobility.

The proposals will be considered by Bolton’s planners after a period of consultation.