A 1,700-house development which was cast in doubt is now back on track after a homebuilder has taken over it.

Countryside has purchased the 175-acre North Leigh Park site, which is located off Nel Pan Lane, and is set to submit a new planning outline application before the end of the year.

The site's previous landowner, North Leigh Park Group Limited (NLPGL), was one of several companies owned by Guernsey-based Long Port Properties Ltd which went into administration.

Deloitte was appointed as administrators in December 2016 before appointing a sales team from CBRE, which sold the land to Countryside.

As well as the houses, the new proposals include a district centre, infrastructure and the retention of green space over 10 years. Countryside expects to begin land remediation work of £20m in the summer with a phased development afterwards.

It has also pledged to invest around £10m in a section of a planned link road between junction 25 of the M6 and junction 5 of the M61.

Regional operations director at Countryside John Grealis 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.”

The developer said it will discuss its plans with the community and keep people regularly updated.

The local authority has expressed its "delight" on Countryside getting involved in the development.

Wigan Council leader 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.”