A NEW housing estate could be created on the site of a disused railway cutting in Kearsley.

Developers have submitted plans to build 42 homes on the overgrown land between Bolton Road and Springfield Road, which is approximately two hectares in size.

A planning statement submitted by consultants Axis, on behalf of applicant W Maher and Sons, claimed the development would regenerate an area that has become untidy and blighted by fly-tipping.

It said: " The majority of site lies at a lower level than the surrounding land with the exception

of the southern part of the site which adjoins Springfield Road, this area was filled up

to the bridge in 1994.

"The area of land adjacent to the bridge at Springfield Road is at the same level as the road, the land then gently slopes from south to north.

"The remainder of the site contains a central strip of relatively even ground with steep banks rising to the east and west, before gently sloping towards Bolton Road in the north.

"Within the Site is an informal path which runs centrally along the cutting, trees and shrubs line the banks of the cutting.

"This path does not form part of a public right of way and there is clear evidence of fly tipping, bonfires and antisocial behaviour within the site."

It also pointed out potential benefits in terms of "meeting the Borough’s needs for housing".

Of the 42 homes proposed, 35 per cent of them would be affordable — a total of 14.

The statement added: "The initial design of the scheme has been well thought out in order to ensure that it would enhance the character of the surrounding residential area and surrounding landscape and not stand out as an incongruous development.

"As identified with this statement, no irresolvable issues in relation to design access have been identified and it is considered that the layout of the development represents the most efficient and practical option."

More details about the design of the houses and the layout would be revealed later in the planning process.

The application also seeks permission to import materials to level the land for development.

For more information on the plans, search for reference number 03880/18 on the planning portal at bolton.gov.uk