LAND owned by Bolton Council at 12 sites across the borough is to be sold with the authority expected to raise £900,000 when the plots are auctioned.

A decision has now been finalised to dispose of the sites, which include St Bede’s playing fields off Haynes Street and land known as Atkinsons Farm off Overdale Drive, in Heaton.

An initial 20 sites had been presented for consultation after being being identified for disposal at market value.

Eight areas have been held back for further discussion after representations were made from nearby residents and councillors.

Other sites set to be sold off are land south of Albion Street, Fairbairn Street, Horwich, Greenwood Vale, Astley Bridge, land north of Hall Lane, Farnworth, Markland Hill Garages, Woodstock Garage Colony, Smithills, Cedar Avenue, Horwich, Smethurst Lane, Farnworth, land off Park Road, Little Lever and Old Nans Lane, Breightmet.

A report to council deputy leader Martyn Cox, who made the decision to sell the assets, said: “The report seeks the approval for the sale and disposal

of 12 sites in various locations across Bolton.

“The council had developed a strategic asset management plan which provided for the disposal of surplus land following a review of the council’s holdings.

“A review of council assets had been undertaken to identify land that had no strategic, development or investment use, and an initial 20 sites had been presented for consultation being identified for disposal at market value for capital receipt.

“Following consultation, 12 sites were recommended for disposal.”

The report added that the council had received a request from St Bede Church of England Primary School to lease St Bede’s Playing Field for use by the school.

The council said the plots would now be marketed for four to six week with a guide price set by property auctioneers at around 20 per cent less than the expected sale price.

Once the cash is received it will be used for the council’s capital programme and to maintain and invest in the existing estate.