The 106-dwelling development of Roscoe's Farm - an area of green open land once used for grazing that borders Hall Lee Bank Nature Reserve - was not unexpected; passed in August 2015, the Section 106 agreement is now signed off and work can proceed. Its impact on traffic problems on Bolton Road, particularly if the Armor Holdings site (opposite) is developed as allocated to be assessed.

There is a preference to develop on brownfield sites (previously developed land), in doing so saving and protecting greenfield sites. Should windfall sites come up on brownfield land these are likely to be viewed favourably and will generally get planning permission. These should be taken into account when planners make future land allocations. Windfall sites will have an impact on local infrastructure and services.

As is normal, there is an expectation that 'windfall' sites on formerly developed land (brownfield) may become available and be used for additional development (housing, retail, employment). There are currently a number of such sites in Westhoughton. Additionally, a number of sites have had permission for development but are currently being used for other purposes; as such these 'forgotten' sites may come up again.

From the Core Strategy Policy (SC1) document: "The council and its partners will (1) Identify a range of housing sites for additional provision of 694 dwellings [across the borough] per annum between 2008 and 2026. (2) At least 80% of housing development will be on previously developed land in accordance with the Regional Spatial Strategy; the Transforming Estates programme will provide up to 20% of housing development on Greenfield land… Outer areas 20-30% of development yield - 2456 dwellings (26.6%) of total yield of 9243 over period… Housing is considered to be an accepted use in the local town centres of Farnworth, Horwich, and Westhoughton through policies RA2, OA1 and OA3 respectively."

Examples of brownfield sites are closed down pubs that have been demolished or converted, and sites that have become derelict when previous industry has ceased.

• Red Lion Pubic House, Wigan Road - Woodlands Dementia Home and Sheltered Accommodation.
• Glebe Mill, Library Street - Aldi Superstore
• The Daisy Hill Tavern - converted into flats.
• Gaiety Snooker Hall, Market Street - planning permission for 20 houses (withdrawn).
• Commercial Pubic House, Church Street - converted into a supermarket (change of use).
• Car Park (adjacent café), Wigan Road - building of 7 apartments.