A LOCAL coach depot, which employs more than 40 people and helps transport pupils to and from nearby schools, has been saved from closure by Bolton Council’s Planning Committee.

Family-run business Tyrers Coaches will continue to run from its Farnsworth site, where it has been based since 2015, thanks to the committee’s decision today (31 May).

Matt Buckle, director of Tyrers Coaches, said:

“We are a family-run business operating for over 45 years, providing local services to the people of Bolton. We employ 41 people at the depot and transport over 1,000 students of all ages to schools and college every day.

“This is the re-use of an existing industrial site which has had permission since the early 1980s. The site is in a sustainable location and our application was better than the unrestricted 24/7 consent that’s in place at present.

“We have engaged with council officers and members at every stage to discuss solutions to the perceived problems and we are still committed to being a good neighbour.”

Professional services firm Knights 1759 supported Tyrers Coaches by co-ordinating and preparing the planning application.

Dan Matthewman, senior associate at Knights 1759:

“We’re delighted that the council has now agreed with the evidence following the recent court direction. Throughout this process, my client has endeavoured to meet all of the necessary legal requirements and has cooperated with the council and other parties.

"The approval will keep all members of staff in their jobs and ensure that more than a thousand of the borough's children can be safely transported to school each day, further helping to reduce congestion on the roads.”