NESTLED behind the looming industrial buildings, of Logistics North, Bolton’s newest country park is taking root.

Neighbours of the former Cutacre open cast mining site in Over Hulton were invited to see phase one of the transformation of 550 acres of the 800-acre site.

The country park is being created alongside the industrial development to become an attraction for employees and locals as well as a haven for wildlife.

Seventy-five people were given a tour to see the difference £2.5million has made in turning the former surface mine and surrounding land into a park.

Works have included new ecological ponds, new footpaths and bridleways and the development of a car park.

The country park, the size of 450 football pitches, has stunning panoramic views across Greater Manchester and across Cheshire.

The residents were able to ask questions as they toured part of the site which is already finished.

They were able to find out more about the site which should be completed early next year and will have 19.5 km of footpaths, horse and cycle routes.

Areas of woodland will be planted to create a natural screen for the Logistics North development and viewing points will be established throughout the park for people to enjoy the views .

New ponds and habitats are being made for wildlife, with Cutacre Brook and Wharton Brook being returned to open channels.

The work is being carried out by Bolton-based AE Yates on behalf of Harworth Group plc.

Chris Davidson, associate director of major projects at Harworth Group, said: “Local residents were promised a country park when we received planning consent for Logistics North at the end of 2013 and they have made it clear they expect us to step up our work in delivering it this year.

“The tour with residents is all about showing what we’ve done so far and the extent of the work that AE Yates and others will be completing on our behalf this year.

“The country park is a key part of the development and we want local residents and people working at Logistics North to extensively use it. Providing the great British weather behaves, we should complete phase one and get the majority of phase two works complete by the end of the year.”

Logistics North is the north west’s largest commercial development that sits within Bolton, and neighbouring authorities.

Aldi, MBDA and Joy Global are all currently operating from the development, whilst Lidl and Whistl have both recently announced their intention to move to the site.

Phase two will include similar work on the eastern part of the site and the opening of the 550 acres of the site.

Bill Mottram, the site ecologist, says the park, which before it was used for open cast mining was grazing land, is already becoming home to the country’s protected species including the great crested newt, and is home to the roe deer, owls and birds. The park is also home to lapwing, mute swan, fox, long eared bat and the common toad.

He said: “This will be an attraction to local people but it is also an important region for the protection of species and has been created with that in mind.

“Natural England have been very happy with what we have done.”

Mr Mottram said the place would also become an education resource for schools.

Leader of Bolton Council, Cllr Cliff Morris, said: “This is great news for local people. The country park has always been an important part of the regeneration of the site, which local residents were promised, and I am delighted it is progressing so well.

“When work is complete, residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a country park for years to come.

“Logistics North is a hugely important site and Bolton is on its way to becoming one of the economic centres in the region as a key distribution hub.

“Major companies are choosing to grow their business in Bolton.”

Ian Smith, of Atherton, said: “I am sad for what we have lost but I am happy with what I have seen.”

Jan Fletcher of Over Hulton, said: “I love it. Icome here daily and have seen how it has changed. There are more trees and ponds, and I think they have done a superb job.”

Debra Long, from Atherton, said: “The people who are doing this do seem to care, and are attracting wildlife. I think it will look fabulous when it is all developed.”