THE first residents at the controversial Bowlands Hey development are expected to move in by April.

A total of 14 houses have already been sold at The Vistas, the name given to the first phase of the Westhoughton development of 129 homes.

A further two houses are currently on the market with more expected to be released on a monthly basis.

The first stage of construction, which will see 88 houses built, is approximately a quarter of the way towards completion.

The remaining properties at the Vistas will be constructed at a later stage but the first two homes are due to be completed by April.

The news comes as the developer has asked the council to change a condition on its planning permission relating to public art at the site.

Bellway Homes says that the University of Bolton should be able to provide the public artwork by the end of 2019.

Planning consultants Lichfield said: "The proposed artwork will provide a local institute with the opportunity to contribute to the placemaking of a new development in the local area.

"It will also contribute to the creation of this high quality development."

The developer has asked for some flexibility in sharing details of the artwork to the local authority which it was supposed to do before the first dwelling is occupied.

Planning officers will determine whether this non-material amendment to the original application from 2016 will be permitted.