A former colliery site at Bickershaw, near Leigh, is primed for development, following the completion of extensive infrastructure works.

Previously derelict land has been decontaminated, new roads have been built and the construction of the development’s centre piece, a magnificent 40 berth marina on the Leeds – Liverpool Canal, is now in place.

Planning has already been granted for a highly sustainable development of up to 650 new homes at the site that will be built around the marina, alongside up to 2,750 sq m of business space.

The improvement works, carried out by Birse Civils, met high environmental standards with all excavated materials being reused on site rather than contributing to landfill. Wildlife will also benefit from an innovative drainage system, designed especially for the development, which will help improve and protect existing wetland habitats for water voles, great crested newts and nesting birds.


A £11 million investment from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) means that the 18 hectare site can now be marketed to private developers.

Andy Burnham, MP for Leigh, celebrated the completion with a tour of the site, joined by representatives from the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA), the North West Regional Development Agency (NWDA), Wigan Council, Scott Wilson and Birse. They watched as narrow boats from local clubs became the first to use the spectacular new marina.

Deborah McLaughlin, Executive Director North West at the HCA, said: "This is a major milestone for what is a key development for Leigh. The new marina is a stunning feature that will be a key attraction for people looking to live or work here. We will now be working closely with our partners find the right developer to ensure that Bickershaw South fulfils its undoubted potential as a truly transformational scheme."

(CD/KMcA)