THE latest phase of homes at the regeneration of the historic Smithills Coaching House site has been launched.

Developer Jones Homes has announced the release of The Woodlands — 13 properties that were built in green belt land surrounding the site of the Grade II listed coach house and stables.

It is the latest episode in a development that has long been criticised by members of the public, who were strongly opposed to the development of the 17th century building.

Gemma Pownall, sales and marketing director at Jones Homes, said: “The launch of The Woodlands at Smithills Coaching House is wonderful news for local homebuyers. The properties are impressive and have been carefully designed to complement the heritage of the coaching house.

“Smithills Coaching House is an extraordinary development and the properties are always in high demand.”

The Woodlands is made up of eight four-bedroom townhouses and five four and five bedroom detached homes.

Prices start from £279,950 for a four-bedroom Chelsea.

Permission for the project was granted by Bolton Council in 2012, which included both the coaching house conversion and 21 homes on the surrounding land.

The nine lodges in the coaching house have all been reserved and these 13 are the first to launch as part of the 21-home build in the green belt.

Opponents felt the building should be developed for a different use.