A 1,700 housing development has taken a step forward after its administrator has appointed a new sales team.

Deloitte, administrators of the 178-acre site North Leigh Park, has recruited CBRE’s UK Development team in Manchester to get involved with the project.

North Leigh Park Group Limited (NLPGL) was one of several companies owned by Guernsey-based Long Port Properties Ltd which went into administration last year before getting Deloitte on board.

Wigan Council has continued to back the project throughout its financial difficulties, and in January, it pledged £10 million to build a new link road from Leigh Road to Westleigh Lane and Atherleigh Way as part of the development.

Marie Bintley, assistant director for housing and growth at the council, said: “North Leigh Park is a very important strategic site for Wigan borough and it has been a long-term ambition of the council to see it realised.

“We are delighted that the site is now being put to the market through CBRE and anticipate a significant amount of interest.

“The council will be pleased to engaged with future developers in respect of its adjoin landholdings and development proposals.”

North Leigh Park will include a mixture of homes as well as a new centre.

There will also be 18 acres of employment land and around 44 acres of green space.

Steven Verity, Senior Director of UK Development team at CBRE Manchester, added: “This is undoubtedly one of the most extensive and exciting sites to hit the North West market.

“It presents a strong opportunity for a developer to deliver a new sustainable community and will make a substantial contribution to the borough’s housing needs and wider economic and regeneration aspirations.”