MORE than 300 new homes could be built on a rundown industrial site in Tonge Moor, if plans are approved tomorrow.

Developer Bellway Homes wants to build 308 houses by knocking down the empty metal forging factory off Crompton Way, which has been closed since October, last year.

The new housing estate will be a mixture of detached and semi-detached properties, with the majority made up of three-bedroom homes.

In an application submitted to the council, Bellway Homes said the new development would benefit the existing community, as well as new residents to Bolton.

It added: “The proposed development will deliver a range of important social, economic and environmental benefits to the local area including developing a substantial amount of market housing to contribute to Bolton’s housing supply and provide much-needed affordable housing in an area where substantial residential development is encouraged.”

Officers at Bolton Council have recommended councillors approve the plans at tomorrow’s planning committee meeting, once an agreement is made about how much Bellway give the council for provision of services.

The council had initially asked for £4.2 million — covering contributions towards more education and health provision, affordable housing and highways improvements — but developers have said they are only able to pay £1.3 million.

An independent report suggested Bellway could pay £2.6 million, including £1.7 million towards affordable housing, and councillors will hear whether the company is willing to pay the compromised sum.

Follow the result on this and other applications being discussed tomorrow in our online live blog.