Area Overview for BL2 5WX

Area Information

Living in BL2 5WX means inhabiting a small, tightly knit residential cluster in the Irwell Valley, positioned midway between Bury and Bolton along the B6196 road. The area’s population of 2022 residents is concentrated in a compact space, with a density of 1141 people per square kilometre. This postcode covers parts of Ainsworth, a village with a history rooted in 19th-century industrial activity, including stone quarrying and cotton industries. Today, the area retains a distinct character shaped by its conservation status and historical ties to the region’s transport networks. The B6196 road, a key artery since the early 19th century, connects residents to nearby towns, while the proximity to Radcliffe and Bolton offers access to broader urban amenities. BL2 5WX is not a sprawling suburb but a focused community, where daily life revolves around local shops, rail links, and the village’s preserved heritage. Its small size means residents are close to both natural and built environments, with the surrounding landscape defined by carboniferous sandstone geology. This is a place where history and modernity intersect, offering a quiet alternative to larger cities while maintaining connectivity to regional hubs.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
2022
Population Density
1141 people/km²

The property market in BL2 5WX is characterised by a strong emphasis on owner-occupation, with 80% of homes owned by residents rather than rented. This suggests a stable, long-term presence of households, often families, in the area. The predominant accommodation type is houses, which contrasts with areas where flats or apartments dominate. This housing stock likely includes a mix of older, traditionally built homes and more recent developments, given the area’s historical industrial roots and conservation status. As a small postcode covering a residential cluster, the property market here is not expansive, meaning buyers may need to look beyond BL2 5WX to find a broader range of options. The focus on houses implies that properties are likely larger and more private than in high-density areas, appealing to those seeking space and a quieter lifestyle. However, the limited size of the area means competition for properties could be intense, particularly for those prioritising specific features like garden space or proximity to transport links.

House Prices in BL2 5WX

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in BL2 5WX

Daily life in BL2 5WX is shaped by its proximity to a range of amenities within walking or short driving distance. The retail sector includes familiar names like Co-op Mile, Spar Radcliffe, and Aldi Breightmet, providing access to groceries, fuel, and everyday essentials. For public transport, residents have five nearby metro stations, including Radcliffe and Bury Bolton Street, and five rail stations such as Hall i’ th’ Wood and Farnworth, which link to broader networks. These stations facilitate easy travel to Bury, Bolton, and beyond, supporting both commuting and leisure trips. The area’s historical ties to the B6196 road and its role in 19th-century industry are reflected in its transport infrastructure, which remains functional and accessible. While the area is small, its amenities are strategically placed to meet local needs, offering convenience without the sprawl of larger towns. The presence of multiple retail and transport options ensures that residents can manage daily tasks efficiently, whether shopping, dining, or traveling. The character of these amenities—practical and community-focused—adds to the area’s appeal as a place where convenience and tradition coexist.

Amenities

Schools

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges

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Demographics

The community in BL2 5WX is predominantly composed of adults aged 30 to 64, with a median age of 47. This suggests a mature, settled population, likely with established careers and families. Home ownership is high at 80%, indicating a stable housing market where most residents live in their own homes rather than renting. The area’s accommodation type is primarily houses, reflecting a preference for single-family dwellings over flats or apartments. The predominant ethnic group is White, aligning with broader demographic trends in the region. The absence of specific data on deprivation means that quality of life is inferred from the low flood risk and proximity to amenities. With a median age that suggests a balanced mix of working-age adults and retirees, the area likely supports a community with diverse needs, from employment opportunities to healthcare access. The high home ownership rate also implies a long-term investment in property, which could influence local services and infrastructure development.

Household Size

Family (3-5 people)
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

80
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

40
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 BL2 5WX?
BL2 5WX has a mature, settled population with a median age of 47, mostly adults aged 30-64. High home ownership (80%) and a focus on houses suggest a community of long-term residents, often families. The area’s small size fosters a close-knit environment, though the high crime risk (score 0/100) may impact local safety perceptions.
Who typically lives in BL2 5WX?
Residents are predominantly White, with a strong presence of adults in their 30s to 60s. The area’s 80% home ownership rate indicates a stable demographic, likely with established careers and families. The absence of younger or older age groups suggests a balanced but not diverse population.
How connected is BL2 5WX to transport and digital services?
Residents enjoy excellent broadband (score 100) and good mobile coverage (85). Five rail stations and five metro stops provide links to Bury and Bolton. The B6196 road connects to regional hubs, ensuring accessibility for commuting and daily travel.
What safety considerations should buyers be aware of?
BL2 5WX has a critical crime risk (score 0/100), requiring enhanced security measures. However, flood risk is low, with no coverage of flood-prone areas. Buyers should assess local crime trends and consider safety features when purchasing.
What amenities are nearby in BL2 5WX?
Residents have access to five retail outlets, including Co-op Mile and Aldi, and five rail/metro stations. The B6196 road links to Bury and Bolton, while local shops and transport hubs provide convenience for daily needs and travel.

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