A LEADING developer says that a housing project in Bury is helping to support hundreds of new jobs being created.

Barratt Homes is at work completing the Waldmers Wood development off Walmersley Old Road.

Bosses have highlighted the economic boon that the scheme, alongside two others in Wigan and Tameside.

Planning permission was granted for the 218 homes proposed for the former Tetrosyl site back in 2018 after the housing giant overcame local concerns about the potential impact on the roads network.

Councillors highlighted that the scheme fit in with current government advice about redeveloping 'brownfield' locations, such as former factories.

Barratt estimates 904 posts have been created at Waldmers Wood and their Amberswood Rise and Hillside developments at Ince-in-Makerfield and Hattersley respectively as a result of the ongoing constructions.

Neil Goodwin, managing director at Barratt Homes Manchester, said: “As the leading housebuilder, we have an obligation to provide support and facilities for the local community.

"This can take the form of open spaces for wildlife, playgrounds for children, beneficial amenities for residents or charitable donations for the wider community.

“However, the sheer amount of jobs that are underpinned from the very early stages of development right up until our sales staff leave the site, provides a crucial boost to the local economy.

"We hope that our continued plans to develop the region should support employment through what has been a difficult time for Britain, and well into the future.”

The firms says that the addition of a housing development in a growing town can increase footfall in local areas, boosting vital services in the community provided to new residents and staff.

"Even during the construction stages, workmen will often visit local cafés and shops – instantly increasing their customer base.

Mr Goodwin added: “As the pandemic continues to disrupt the local economy, it is more important than ever to shop local.

"Businesses in rural areas have been hit hard by Coronavirus and hopefully by bringing a wider customer base to these locations, we can help support the businesses most heavily affected.”