Area Overview for BL6 4WY

Area Information

BL6 4WY is a small residential postcode within the Horwich South & Blackrod ward of Bolton, Greater Manchester. This area blends suburban tranquillity with proximity to urban amenities, serving a population of 2,326 people across 313 residents per square kilometre. Historically rooted in textile manufacturing and railway engineering, the area has evolved into a residential hub with a focus on semi-detached and detached housing. The ward’s character is defined by its mix of rural and developed land, with 79% of the area remaining undeveloped, including significant agricultural land. Despite this, 70.1% of the region faces traffic noise, a byproduct of its motorway access and transport links. The presence of the Middlebrook Retail Park and the University of Bolton Stadium—home to Bolton Wanderers Football Club—anchors the local economy and community life. Residents benefit from nearby rail stations, including Horwich Parkway, Lostock, and Westhoughton, which connect to major cities. The area’s demographics suggest a mature community, with a median age of 47 and a strong emphasis on home ownership, reflecting a settled, family-oriented environment.

Area Type
Postcode
Area Size
Not available
Population
2326
Population Density
313 people/km²

BL6 4WY is primarily an owner-occupied area, with 83% of homes owned by residents rather than rented. The accommodation type is predominantly houses, with semi-detached and detached properties dominating the housing stock. This contrasts with areas where flats or leasehold properties are more common, indicating a preference for private, standalone homes. The high home ownership rate suggests a community of long-term residents, likely drawn to the area’s suburban character and established infrastructure. However, the small postcode area’s limited size means housing options are constrained, and buyers should consider nearby wards for broader choices. The presence of semi-detached and detached homes also implies a focus on family living, with larger properties suited to multi-generational households. For investors, the area’s stability and low flood risk may present opportunities, though the high crime risk—rated critical—could affect property desirability.

House Prices in BL6 4WY

No properties found in this postcode.

Energy Efficiency in BL6 4WY

BL6 4WY offers a mix of retail and transport amenities within practical reach. Nearby shopping options include Tesco Bolton, Asda Horwich, and M&S Middlebrook, providing access to supermarkets and general retail. The Middlebrook Retail Park, a £173 million development, serves as a commercial hub, offering additional shopping and dining choices. For transport, five rail stations—Horwich Parkway, Lostock, and Westhoughton—offer connections to regional and national routes. The area’s suburban character is complemented by its proximity to the University of Bolton Stadium, a focal point for sports and community events. However, the 70.1% traffic noise exposure and reliance on rail links may impact the quietness of daily life. The ward’s mix of developed and undeveloped land suggests a balance between convenience and open space, though recreational parks or green areas are not explicitly detailed in the data.

Amenities

Schools

The nearest school to BL6 4WY is Bolton Wanderers Free School, a sixth-form institution catering to older students. While no Ofsted rating is provided, the school’s focus on post-16 education suggests it serves the needs of students preparing for higher education or vocational training. However, families with younger children may find limited primary or secondary schools within the immediate area, necessitating travel to nearby wards or towns. The absence of younger school options could be a consideration for prospective buyers prioritising proximity to educational facilities. The area’s demographic profile—skewed toward middle-aged adults—may also indicate a lower demand for schools serving younger age groups, though this could change with future population shifts.

RankA + A* %SchoolTypeEntry genderAges
1N/ABolton Wanderers Free Schoolsixth-formN/AN/A

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Demographics

The community in BL6 4WY is predominantly composed of adults aged 30–64, with a median age of 47. Home ownership is high at 83%, reflecting a stable, long-term resident base. The area is characterised by houses rather than flats, aligning with its suburban residential profile. Ethnically, 92.8% of residents identify as White, with 59% of the population adhering to Christianity. The ward’s demographic profile indicates a low level of deprivation, with 80% of areas classified as non-deprived. However, 12% of residents live in zones with high transport-related social exclusion risk, and 15.3% of households own no cars or vans. This suggests that while the area is economically stable overall, some residents may face challenges accessing services without private transport. The age profile—skewed toward middle-aged adults—hints at a community with strong family ties and established careers, though younger families may find limited primary or secondary schools within the immediate vicinity.

Household Size

Family (3-5 people)
most common

Accommodation Type

Houses
most common

Tenure

83
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

43
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 BL6 4WY?
The area has a population of 2,326, with 83% home ownership. Predominantly White residents, a median age of 47, and a focus on semi-detached and detached housing reflect a stable, family-oriented community. However, 15.3% of households have no cars, which may impact mobility for some residents.
Are there schools nearby for younger children?
The nearest school is Bolton Wanderers Free School, a sixth-form institution. Primary and secondary schools are not listed in the data, suggesting families may need to look beyond the immediate area for younger children’s education.
How connected is the area by transport?
BL6 4WY has five rail stations, including Horwich Parkway, offering links to major cities. Broadband and mobile scores are excellent (88/100 and 85/100), but 15.3% of households have no cars, which may affect reliance on public transport.
What safety concerns should buyers be aware of?
The area has a critical crime risk with a safety score of 0/100. Enhanced security measures are recommended, though flood risk is low, and there are no protected natural areas to pose environmental hazards.
What amenities are available for daily life?
Residents have access to Tesco, Asda, and M&S for shopping, plus the Middlebrook Retail Park. Rail stations provide transport links, but recreational parks or green spaces are not explicitly detailed in the data.

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