Planning inquiry set for revised Hulton Park plans

A planning inquiry into Peel L&P’s revised proposals for Bolton’s Hulton Park will be held this week.The hearing will be held on Thursday and Friday (6 and 7 October).In 2020, the secretary of state ruled that Peel LP could build housing and a golf course on land at Hulton Park on the condition that the site is chosen as a future Ryder Cup venue.Earlier this year, Bolton Council’s planning committee refused an application to alter the agreed plans for the site. This refusal is now being appealed, and the committee’s decision will be reviewed during the course of the two day inquiry.The planning inspectorate will make a final decision on the appeal at a later date.The scheme seeks to redevelop and restore the historic estate into an iconic sporting venue and healthy living destination.Peel believes the project is a “potential game-changer” for Bolton and would realise a £240m investment, create more than 1,000 jobs and have a long-term national impact of £1.6bn.The vision remains within Bolton’s sights as the project is one of only two English venues shortlisted by UK Sport and Ryder Cup Europe for an English bid for the 2031 Ryder Cup.