A HORWICH neighbourhood is set to benefit from environmental improvements to its homes after government funding was secured.

Energy efficiency and boundary wall improvement works will be carried out at residential properties in an area of terraced Streets near to the former Horwich Loco Works sight after Bolton Council secured money from the Green Deal Communities Fund.

The Government fund, aimed at improving the energy efficiency of private sector dwellings, will cover 75 per cent of the cost of the improvements, with Bolton Council’s Safe, Warm and Dry budget making up the remaining 25 per cent.

The measures will include external wall insulation and the fitting of energy efficient boilers, windows and doors.

In addition, boundary wall improvements of the terraces will aim to enhance the overall appearance of the streets.

Cllr Stephen Pickup, who represents the Horwich and Blackrod ward on Bolton Council said: “I am thrilled that Bolton Council has managed to secure funding for these environmental works in the Railway Terraces.

“This will give the whole area an lift and as well as introducing these green measures, it will help reduce residents’ fuel bills. I would encourage those eligible to take up this fantastic offer.”

Fellow Ward Councillor Alan Bury said: “People have said to me that they feel as if Bolton Council and politics in general do very little for them in their day to day life.

“I disagree with these statements and this initiative aimed at delivering potential reductions to fuel bills as well as other environmental improvements to the residents that live in the area of Railway Terraces in Horwich is a shining example of what can be done.

“Wanting to help people in this way is the reason that I entered politics.”

Plans have been submitted to Bolton Council for the project which will be carried out by Bradford-based contractors Hamilton.

If accepted, the roads that would be included in the scheme would be Hawkshaw Street, Fairbarn Street, Gooch Street, Hartley Street, Stephenson Street and Watts Street.

A meeting of Horwich Town Council saw overwhelming support for the proposals from councillors.

It is anticipated that consultation with residents will commence in February, with a view to the scheme being completed by the end of June.