The factory was decommissioned in 2023 and the site will be transformed into a new residential community of approximately 300 homes.

The Lancashire-based developer aims to submit a detailed planning application by the end of this year to add to its current pipeline of around 2,000 homes across the North.

Andy Garnett, director at Breck, said: “The acquisition is part of our commitment to regenerating communities across the North by identifying and unlocking strategic land opportunities.

“As a well-funded business, we are able to act quickly when sites like Ravenhead come to market. We have purchased the potential development site without any existing planning permission at our risk.

“Although the site presents technical challenges, we are confident in our technical ability to transform it into a thriving community. This project will also create a boost to the local economy by offering opportunities for subcontractors and apprentices, something we ensure happens across all our sites.

“We look forward to progressing our plans for the site later in the year.”

Nick Spence, planning and estates manager for the Ibstock Group added: ‘‘We have enjoyed working with the highly professional and proactive team at Breck, and are delighted the land will be used to create a new community in the northern region of the country.

“We also take pride in ensuring we continue the ongoing maintenance and restoration work of the nearby quarry area which will remain part of the Ibstock estate.”

The Ravenhead acquisition comes as Breck expands its presence across the North. It is in the process of opening a new Leeds office as part of its expansion into Yorkshire.