CAMPAIGNERS have been left shocked and appalled after the government approved controversial plans for over 1,000 houses at Hulton Park

On Thursday evening, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government Robert Jenrick granted planning permission for the homes, a hotel, and a golf course to Peel L&P on the condition it wins a bid to host the Ryden Cup in 2030 or 2034.

The firm is now one step closer to its goal of building 1,036 homes, a 142-bed hotel, and a championship grade golf course on the historic 1,000-acre estate.

David Chadwick, chair of the Hulton Estate Area Residents Together (HEART), expressed his anger at the latest development.

He said: "Quite frankly I'm appalled by the fact the inspector and the government decided to approve the planning application – I'm devastated.

"I will be completely gobsmacked if they get the Ryder Cup in either of those years, I don't wish to disrespect our town but quite frankly it beggars belief that it could take place in Bolton.

"It's a heritage site that's home to many animals including deer and birds, it's a very great site, I'm just completely and utterly appalled by this decision.

"I feel quite sorry for the people who've worked so hard to try and beat Peel, they've raised so much money for a barrister and it's to their credit – I feel so very sad for them."

A three-week public inquiry about the plans was held in Bolton last October after the Secretary of State "called in" Bolton Council's decision to grant planning permission in 2018,

Hulton Park Estate, which is classified as green belt land, could see the international golf destination open in 2025, with Peel believing the development could at £1.2b to the national economy.

Richard Knight, Director of Land and Communities for Peel L&P said: “We take great pride in creating projects that can leave a positive legacy. Our plans for Hulton Park can deliver an amazing global sporting destination capable of hosting major tournaments as well as a catalyst for positive change, healthy living, heritage restoration and tourism in Bolton.

“The proposals can also bring much-needed housing to the borough and the development is both respectful to the area’s heritage and the environment with original roads and footpaths retained and the creation of new wildlife habitats to enhance biodiversity.

“We’re incredibly pleased that the Secretary of State recognises all of these benefits alongside our vision for Hulton Park and this decision allows us to move to the next stage of making the project a reality.”