Area Overview for BL2 3RD

Hough Fold farmhouse in BL2 3RD
Stitch-Mi-Lane, Harwood in BL2 3RD
Brookfold Lane reaches Hardy Mill Road in BL2 3RD
Lonsight Lane/Hough Fold Way junction in BL2 3RD
Belmont View, Harwood in BL2 3RD
Footpath from Belmont View to Hough Fold Way in BL2 3RD
Footpath under a bedroom in BL2 3RD
The footpath runs through the middle of the house... in BL2 3RD
Hardy Mill Road at cherry blossom time in BL2 3RD
Gateposts in the snow in BL2 3RD
Looking down on a curve in the brook in BL2 3RD
Walsh's Educational Institute in BL2 3RD
74 photos from this area

Area Information

BL2 3RD is a small residential postcode area in England, home to around 1,523 people. It occupies a compact footprint, typical of a postcode cluster, and reflects a quiet, established community. The area’s character is shaped by its historical roots in Bolton-le-Moors, a parish with medieval origins. Today, BL2 3RD is a place where households are predominantly owner-occupied, with 76% of homes owned by residents. The median age of 47 suggests a stable population, with adults aged 30–64 forming the majority. Daily life here is defined by proximity to local schools, transport links, and a mix of retail and public services. The area’s small size means residents are close to amenities, though it lacks the density of larger urban centres. Its location within Greater Manchester offers access to broader regional networks, while its historical ties to textile manufacturing and quarrying hint at a working-class heritage. For buyers, BL2 3RD presents a blend of practicality and tradition, with homes primarily in single-family structures. The area’s low flood risk and absence of protected natural sites make it a straightforward place to live, though its safety profile requires attention.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
1523
Population Density
2633 people/km²

The property market in BL2 3RD is characterised by high home ownership, with 76% of residents owning their homes. This suggests a market skewed towards owner-occupation rather than rentals, which is typical of smaller, established communities. The accommodation type is primarily houses, indicating a focus on single-family homes rather than apartments or terraced properties. This housing stock may appeal to families or individuals seeking space and privacy, though the limited size of the area means the available properties are concentrated within a small geographic footprint. For buyers, this means competition for homes is likely to be local, with limited scope for expansion beyond the immediate vicinity. The absence of high-end or luxury properties suggests a modest market, where affordability and practicality are prioritised over prestige. The predominance of houses also implies that renovation or extension opportunities may be more common than in high-density areas.

House Prices in BL2 3RD

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in BL2 3RD

Daily life in BL2 3RD is supported by a range of nearby amenities. Retailers such as Spar, Morrisons Top O, and Iceland Bolton provide essential shopping, while the proximity of rail stations like Hall i’ th’ Wood and Bromley Cross ensures easy access to larger towns. Metro services at Radcliffe and Bury Interchange connect residents to broader Greater Manchester networks, facilitating travel for work or leisure. The area’s small size means these amenities are within walking or short driving distance, enhancing convenience. While there is no mention of parks or leisure facilities in the data, the presence of schools and transport hubs suggests a focus on practicality over recreational spaces. The mix of retail, transport, and educational options creates a functional, community-oriented environment where residents can meet daily needs without long commutes.

Amenities

Schools

BL2 3RD is served by a range of educational institutions, including Christ’s Church CofE Primary School in Harwood, which provides early years and primary education. Firwood High School, a special school, caters to students with specific educational needs, while Bolton St Catherine’s Academy, an academy, offers secondary education. Notably, Bolton St Catherine’s Academy has an Ofsted rating of satisfactory, reflecting its performance in meeting educational standards. The mix of school types ensures that families have options for both mainstream and specialist education. However, the absence of a clearly outstanding school in the area may be a consideration for parents prioritising high-performing institutions. The proximity of these schools to BL2 3RD means that daily commutes for students are likely to be short, supporting a family-friendly environment.

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1N/AChrist's Church CofE Primary School, HarwoodprimaryN/AN/A
2N/AFirwood High SchoolspecialN/AN/A
3N/ABolton St Catherine's AcademyacademyN/AN/A
4N/ABolton St Catherine's AcademyacademyN/AN/A
5N/AFirwood High SchoolspecialN/AN/A

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Demographics

The population of BL2 3RD is 1,523, with a median age of 47. The majority of residents fall within the 30–64 age range, indicating a mature, settled community. Home ownership is high at 76%, reflecting a preference for long-term residency over rental properties. The accommodation type is predominantly houses, suggesting a mix of semi-detached and detached homes. The predominant ethnic group is White, though specific diversity statistics are not provided. The age profile and ownership rates imply a stable, low-turnover neighbourhood, where families and older adults are the primary demographic. This demographic structure may influence local services and amenities, with schools and retail tailored to adult and family needs. The absence of detailed deprivation data means the area’s quality of life is inferred from its infrastructure and safety assessments. For instance, the high crime risk noted in safety evaluations could impact perceptions of security, even if other factors like broadband connectivity remain strong.

Household Size

Family (3-5 people)
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

76
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

29
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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Open Planning map

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the community feel like in BL2 3RD?
BL2 3RD has a stable, mature population with a median age of 47. The community is predominantly owner-occupied, with 76% of homes owned by residents, suggesting a long-term, settled demographic. The area’s small size fosters a close-knit environment, though it lacks the density of larger urban centres.
Who lives in BL2 3RD?
Residents are primarily adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. The predominant ethnic group is White, and 76% of homes are owner-occupied. This indicates a stable, family-focused community with limited demographic diversity data provided.
What schools are near BL2 3RD?
Christ’s Church CofE Primary School, Firwood High School (special), and Bolton St Catherine’s Academy (academy) are nearby. Bolton St Catherine’s Academy has an Ofsted rating of satisfactory, offering a range of educational options for families.
How is transport and connectivity in BL2 3RD?
The area has excellent broadband (score 99) and good mobile coverage (score 85). Five rail stations and three metro stops are within reach, providing strong regional connectivity. Retail amenities like Spar and Morrisons are also nearby.
Is BL2 3RD safe to live in?
The area has a high crime risk, with a safety score of 0/100. However, flood risk is low, and there are no protected natural sites. Residents should consider enhanced security measures, but environmental hazards are minimal.

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