Four days left to comment on masterplans for future new communities

Residents have until Friday (27 March) to comment on draft development frameworks for Elton Reservoir, Walshaw and Simister/Bowlee.

The outline plans are for around 6,000 new homes and new schools, alongside major transport improvements including new roads, a Metrolink stop, enhanced public transport and new walking and cycle routes.

These plans form part of the adopted Places for Everyone (PfE) Joint Development Plan, the long-term strategy for sustainable growth across the region.

Once adopted they will become Supplementary Planning Documents, providing guidance for future planning applications.

For detailed information and the online consultation form, visit www.bury.gov.uk/strategicsites.

The consultation is not about the decision to develop these sites, but on how residents can influence how the developments take shape.

Nearly 300 people attended the recent drop-in sessions to find out more and discuss the proposals with the planning team.

ENDS

Press release issued: 23 March 2026.