A FORMER health centre in Halliwell which is already home to a children's nursery will be transformed into flats.

Planning permission has been granted by Bolton Council to convert a section of Halliwell Health Centre in Aylesford Walk into 11 self-contained flats.

Originally it was intended to have 13 dwellings at the site, this has now been reduced by two units to ensure they are more spacious.

The site was previously used as a health centre and children's centre, however the services were ceased approximately a year ago and it was put up for sale.

In February 2020 the premises were bought by the applicant, Raisfuel Limited.

The flats are expected to be completed within six months.

Brighter Beginnings Day Nursery opened on the ground floor on November 2.

Asif Patel of Raisfuel Limited said: "It's good that we've got permission to go ahead and we are happy that the council has allowed this development in Bolton.

"We are hoping that it will be completed within the next six months."

Part of the ground floor and the first floor will be converted into the apartments.

The development has been welcomed in the surrounding area, providing much-needed accommodation.

Cllr Akhtar Zaman said: "It's good to see the building being put to use and that the site will serve a purpose.

"It could have stood derelict which would have attracted anti-social behaviour, so it's great that it will be used as something positive which adds to the community.

"I hope that this development will contribute to the wellbeing of the area and it's people.

"The nursery will be a great addition to the community."

Cllr Cliff Morris added: "I haven't got a problem with it, there's plenty of room and I think it's a great idea.

"We need more accommodation in the area so I'm really happy to see this development is going to be realised."

Brighter Beginnings Day Nursery have already received a positive response from local parents.

The nursery looks after children young children to the age of five

Co-owner Hafiza Mohmed said: "Although we've been open for less than a month it's been excellent so far.

"The feedback we've had from parents is really positive and we provide that home from home experience for children."

Regarding the permission being granted for the flats, she added: "I think it's great for the local area and the location is very central, it's very central to everybody."