WORK has begun on the construction of 103 homes on the site of the former home of Leigh Centurions Hilton Park.

Remedial work at the marks the start of work on the development, which will see 103 private rental family homes created.

The £11.3m development, located on the former Hilton Park site, off Chadwick Street, will see energy and regeneration specialist ENGIE construct one, two, three and four-bedroom homes.

Lee Francis, area director at ENGIE, said: “We’re delighted to kick start this project with Sigma and bring new homes to the local community of Leigh.

“We’ve been working with Sigma over the last few years to create hundreds of homes across Yorkshire and have seen the positive transformation it has brought to these areas by offering people the opportunity to live in conveniently-located high quality new homes without the commitments of home ownership.

“We’re pleased that we can now bring our partnership to Greater Manchester, and we are sure this development will be another brilliant example of much needed investment in private rental housing.”

Andy Beattie, regional development director at Sigma Capital, added: “We are really pleased to extend our successful partnership with ENGIE to the Greater Manchester region.

“Simple Life has been created to enable customers to enjoy a better rental experience and to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of renting.

“Customers can expect all the little details to be taken care of, with each new home thoughtfully designed and built to a high standard. Bright, light and spacious, Simple Life homes are professionally managed and maintained, offering an attractive housing alternative for young professionals, families and early retirees alike.

Leader of Wigan Council, Cllr David Molyneux said: “Working closely with the private sector to deliver housing not only helps us to meet housing demand but also opens up more opportunities for existing residents and those thinking of moving to our borough.

“Good quality new housing along with improved transport links and employment opportunities provides the right mix to keep our local economy growing, which is another key priority for us. We look forward to the prospects this development will bring to the local community.”