Area Overview for BL4 9FN

BL4 9FN is a small residential postcode area in the Metropolitan Borough of Bolton, Greater Manchester, with a population of just 1506 residents. Situated approximately 3 miles south-east of Bolton town centre, it lies within the historic Farnworth township, once known as Halshaw Moor. The area is part of the former Municipal Borough of Farnworth, which had industrial roots dating back to the 19th century, including coal mining, paper mills, and iron foundries. Today, it is a compact community with a distinct character shaped by its history and proximity to Bolton. The area’s small size means it is tightly knit, with residents likely to know their neighbours. While it lacks the density of urban centres, its proximity to rail networks, retail hubs, and the City Airport Manchester offers practical connectivity. The demographic profile suggests a mature population, with a median age of 47 and most residents aged between 30 and 64. This reflects a community with established roots, where homes are predominantly owner-occupied, though the 31% home ownership rate hints at a mix of rental and private properties.

The schools near BL4 9FN include Bridgewater Nursery School, Queen Street Primary School, and St Gregory’s RC Primary School in Farnworth, Bolton, which are all state-funded institutions. Additionally, Compass Centre South and TLG Bolton are listed as other and independent schools, respectively. This mix of school types provides families with options ranging from early years education to independent schooling. The presence of multiple primary schools suggests that the area is well-served for younger children, though the absence of secondary schools within the postcode may require families to consider nearby areas for secondary education. The availability of both state and independent options reflects a range of educational philosophies and budgets, which could be a key consideration for families prioritising specific schooling environments. However, the data does not include Ofsted ratings or performance metrics, so prospective parents may need to conduct further research into the quality of education provided by these institutions.

The population of BL4 9FN is 1506, with a median age of 47 and the majority of residents falling within the 30-64 age range. This suggests a community of adults, many of whom may be in their prime working years or nearing retirement. Home ownership in the area is relatively low at 31%, indicating that a significant portion of the housing stock is rented out, which could influence the local rental market dynamics. The predominant accommodation type is houses, which is unusual for a small postcode area, suggesting a mix of detached and semi-detached properties. The predominant ethnic group is White, which aligns with broader demographic trends in Bolton. While the data does not specify deprivation levels, the combination of low home ownership and a mature age profile may imply a community with varied economic circumstances. The absence of specific data on diversity or deprivation means these factors are not quantified, but the demographic profile paints a picture of a settled, middle-aged population with a focus on family-oriented living.