Diamond Bus Company is set to create a new depot in central Bolton that will house up to 68 buses and employ around 100 people, after planning approval was granted.
The company currently operates from premises on Goodwin Street, off Folds Road, but planning documents reveal it needs to relocate urgently as the lease on that site is about to conclude. Approval for the new site on nearby Lum Street was granted in the past week.
New Depot Plans
A design and access statement supporting the plans said the site will be used for the storage of buses totalling no more than 68. The proposal seeks permission to erect a portal frame building to act as a maintenance and repair facility for the buses operating from the site.
Consent is also sought to house three portable buildings providing office space, staff facilities, sanitary accommodation and a check-in room for the business, along with a hard surfaced area for washing buses.
Site Details
The site is currently used for the storage of vehicles for several local dealerships. It is a totally stoned area with no buildings on site and is subdivided into two parcels, both used by different dealerships. After the depot is created, part of the site will remain in use for vehicle storage.
The report said Lum Street is a cul-de-sac, about one mile to the east of Bolton town centre in a predominantly industrial area, with surrounding uses primarily industrial and light industrial.
Operations and Approval
Bus operations generally start at 4am and end at 1am, generating in the region of 68 movements plus any unexpected depot returns. The business will operate 24 hours a day as returned buses are cleaned between 1am and 4am. Up to 100 people will be employed on the site, including bus drivers, workshop mechanics, cleaning staff and office workers.
Bolton Council approved the application, subject to conditions, on October 21.
