GROUND investigation work is to continue on former industrial land which is allocated for a major mixed-use development.

Subject to planning permission, the 112-hectare brownfield site to the south of Hindley will see the delivery of up to 2,000 family homes, 12 hectares of employment land and a new east-west link road.

The site will also include 40 hectares of open space with a range of natural spaces, play areas and sports pitches.

The land was identified for development in Wigan Council's Local Plan Core Strategy in 2013.

A planning application is expected to be submitted later this year.

The investigation work will make sure any contamination is identified and addressed before any building work takes place.

Some investigation work has already taken place and the remaining work will take place over the next two weeks.

Residents are being reassured that there is no risk to the public as a consequence of the works.

The investigations will involve excavations to depths of around three metres and a small number of boreholes to depths of around 15 metres.

Karl Battersby, director for economy and environment at the council, said: “On sites which have previously been used for industry there is usually a need to confirm that the ground is free from significant contamination.

“If any contamination is found appropriate remediation work will be undertaken before any development takes place so that the environment and future residents will be safe.

“This work is safe and is an important step towards reassuring residents and realising the development of the south Hindley master plan, which will provide jobs and homes for people in the years ahead.”

The master plan is being developed jointly by the council and Peel Holdings, which owns part of the south Hindley site.