WORK to convert the historic Smithills Coaching House into nine homes is “progressing well” say developers — but work will not be complete until next spring.

Building is also underway on another 21 new homes on green belt land surrounding the site, with the first property due to be ready at the same time.

The 17th century coaching house and stables, located in the Smithills Country Park, once served the historic Smithills Hall.

The plans, by developers Jones Homes, angered some residents, local councillors and heritage activists, but planning bosses believed it was the best way to save the building — which has been derelict since the restaurant, which had operated there for 46 years, closed in August last year.

A spokesman for Jones Homes said the firm was pleased with the progress that has been made so far.

He added: “The exterior of the building is looking good — but we don’t anticipate the project to be finished completely until April or May of next year.

“With the sensitive restoration of the existing building well underway, we have just started work on the new build element of the scheme, with the first home due to be completed around the same time as the refurbishment.”

Bolton Council’s planning committee gave the green light for the 17th century Grade II-listed site to be turned into eight homes in 2012 — with the figure later rising to nine.

The application for the other 21 houses was rubber stamped at the time.

After starting work on the site last summer, Jones Homes was granted permission earlier this year to change the plans, after analysing the true state of the building.

The developers will no longer be removing the building’s iconic stone roof and have said that all nine homes will include many original features such as exposed stonework and timberwork.

Potential buyers are being asked to register their interest in the properties.

Smithills councillor Roger Hayes battled against the initial development. He still believes that allowing the building of the additional 21 houses on green belt land has set a “dangerous precedent” for the area.

He added: “The builders seem to be doing a lot of weather proofing of the coaching house and they seem to be doing a very professional job.

“My main concern is the environment around the coaching house but there is not much that I or the residents can do about it.”