Area Overview for BB4 9HW

Area Information

BB4 9HW is a small residential postcode in the Rossendale borough of Lancashire, nestled between the towns of Bacup and Waterfoot. With a population of 1,509, it reflects a quiet, close-knit community shaped by its historical ties to the cotton industry and later diversification into manufacturing and quarrying. The area’s compact size means it is part of the Whitewell & Stacksteads Ward, a district with a population of 3,789 at the 2011 census. Living here offers a blend of rural tranquillity and accessible town amenities, with nearby towns like Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom providing retail, transport, and cultural hubs. The postcode’s small cluster of homes suggests a stable, long-term resident base, with a median age of 47 and a majority of adults aged 30–64. Daily life here is defined by proximity to local schools, rail links, and a mix of historic and modern infrastructure, making it a practical choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle without the pressures of larger urban centres.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
Not available
Population Density
Not available

The property market in BB4 9HW is characterised by a 61% home ownership rate, with houses forming the predominant accommodation type. This suggests a market skewed towards owner-occupied properties rather than rental units, which is typical of smaller, rural postcodes. The compact nature of the area means housing stock is limited, with no indication of high-density development or new builds. For buyers, this implies a niche market where properties are likely to be older, family homes with established gardens or plots. The absence of flats or apartments further reinforces this, making the area more suitable for those seeking traditional housing rather than modern, high-rise living. Proximity to nearby towns like Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom may offer additional property options, but within BB4 9HW itself, the focus remains on individual homes in a low-rise, residential setting.

House Prices in BB4 9HW

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in BB4 9HW

The lifestyle in BB4 9HW is shaped by its proximity to retail, dining, and transport hubs. Within practical reach are five retail outlets, including Co-op Waterfoot, Lidl Rawtenstall, and Asda Rawtenstall, ensuring everyday shopping needs are met. The area’s rail network connects to five stations, including Rose Grove and Walsden, while metro links to Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom provide access to broader services. Though the data does not list specific parks or leisure venues, the historical context of the ward—once a hub for cotton mills and quarries—suggests a landscape that balances industry with natural spaces. Residents benefit from the quiet of a small postcode while retaining access to the vibrancy of nearby towns, where cultural and social opportunities are more concentrated. The mix of retail, transport, and historical character contributes to a lifestyle that is both practical and rooted in the region’s heritage.

Amenities

Schools

Residents of BB4 9HW have access to a range of educational institutions, including St Anne’s Church of England Primary School, which holds an Ofsted rating of ‘good’. This school, along with Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School (listed as both a primary and academy), provides options for families seeking state education. The presence of an independent school, Rossendale Education Centre, adds diversity to the local schooling landscape, though it is not specified whether it caters to primary or secondary students. The mix of school types—state primary, academy, and independent—offers flexibility for parents, whether they prioritise faith-based education, specialist academies, or private schooling. However, the data does not clarify the distance from BB4 9HW to these institutions, which could be a factor for families reliant on school catchment areas.

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1N/ASt Anne's Church of England Primary SchoolprimaryN/AN/A
2N/ABacup and Rawtenstall Grammar SchoolprimaryN/AN/A
3N/ARossendale Education CentreindependentN/AN/A
4N/ABacup and Rawtenstall Grammar SchoolacademyN/AN/A
5N/ABacup and Rawtenstall Grammar SchoolacademyN/AN/A

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Demographics

The community in BB4 9HW is predominantly composed of adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. This suggests a mature, established population, likely with strong ties to the area. Home ownership stands at 61%, indicating a significant proportion of residents live in properties they own, rather than renting. The accommodation type is primarily houses, reflecting a more traditional housing stock compared to flats or apartments. The predominant ethnic group is White, which aligns with broader trends in the region. While specific data on deprivation is not provided, the low crime risk score of 75 (with lower scores indicating less risk) and the absence of environmental constraints like protected woodlands or wetlands suggest a stable, low-pressure environment. This demographic profile points to a community focused on stability, with limited turnover and a focus on long-term residency.

Household Size

One person
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

61
majority

Ethnic Group

White
most common

Religion

N/A
most common

Household Composition

N/A
most common

Age

47
median
Adults (30-64 years)
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

27
in Lower managerial occupations

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Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Locked
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Locked
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Locked
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Locked
  • Protected Woodland
    Locked
  • Crime Risk
    Locked

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in BB4 9HW?
The area has a population of 1,509, with a median age of 47 and a majority of residents aged 30–64. This suggests a mature, stable community with strong local ties. The 61% home ownership rate and predominance of houses indicate a focus on long-term residency rather than transient populations.
Who lives in BB4 9HW?
Residents are primarily adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. The predominant ethnic group is White, and 61% of homes are owner-occupied. The area’s small size and historical roots in manufacturing suggest a mix of long-standing families and professionals working in nearby towns.
What schools are near BB4 9HW?
St Anne’s Church of England Primary School has an Ofsted rating of ‘good’. Bacup and Rawtenstall Grammar School serves both primary and academy roles, while Rossendale Education Centre is an independent option. Families have access to a range of school types, though specific catchment areas are not detailed.
How connected is BB4 9HW digitally?
Broadband quality is excellent (score 97), and mobile coverage is good (score 83). This supports remote work and daily internet use. Rail links to Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom, along with five nearby stations, ensure physical connectivity to regional hubs.
Is BB4 9HW a safe place to live?
The area has a low crime risk (score 75) and no flood or environmental hazards. Assessments indicate minimal safety concerns, with no protected natural sites or planning constraints affecting daily life. This makes it a secure choice for families and individuals.

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