Countryside to embark on 10-year housing supply in Wigan

Home builder Countryside has begun preparations for planning to bring to site one of the largest strategic housing developments in the North West.

The move closely follows Countryside’s purchase of approximately 175 acres of land off Nel Pan Lane in Leigh, where the house builder will deliver around 1,700 new homes, a new district centre, infrastructure and the retention of green open space more than a 10-year period.

Countryside’s consultants are currently preparing reports to support its planning application, which includes the review of the site’s existing outline planning consent for the development of new homes.

Countryside and Wigan Council are working in partnership to realise the full potential of the site and its strategic importance to help deliver vital new housing for the borough.

The company will also invest approximately £10m in a section of the planned new link road between M6/J26 and M61/J5.

John Grealis, regional operations director, Countryside, said: “It is rare that a piece of land of this size comes to market but it fits perfectly with our business’s partnership approach with local authorities.

“We have a proven track record in place-making by creating high quality, design-led homes that will be available to those looking to rent or buy.

“We invest heavily in creating distinct neighbourhoods that go beyond house building – neighbourhoods that are well connected, served by local amenities and that are complemented by extensive landscaping, mature trees and green open spaces.

“This is an extremely exciting opportunity for our business and we very much look forward to working collaboratively with Wigan Council to create a new desirable residential location within the borough.”

Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux, said: “The North Leigh site is a key strategic site which brings a wealth of opportunities and we are delighted to be working in partnership with Countryside to bring this exciting development to Leigh.

“It will see brownfield land transformed into a vibrant place for people to live and visit by creating new homes with amenities to benefit everyone.”

Countryside plans to submit a new outline planning application before the end of the year with a view to commencing £20m of land remediation in the summer and a phased development approach thereafter.

The house builder will be working closely with the local community to discuss its plans and provide updates on progress.