WILMSLOW has emerged as a house-hunting hotspot since the market reopened, according to a new report.

Property website Rightmove has named Wilmslow as the fourth most popular place in England among people searching for a home since lockdown was eased.

It says that buyer demand has increased by 63 per cent compared with March.

The town also stands out in Rightmove’s top 10 list as the only place with average house prices above the national average, at £461,535 compared to £337,884.

Miles Shipside, property expert at Rightmove, said: “The fact that towns are bouncing back better than bigger cities is indicative of many prospective buyers choosing smaller areas to live, but still looking for places that will have all the facilities they need on their doorstep.”

Wilmslow is one of five north west towns to feature in the list alongside Wigan in second place, Rochdale in third place, Bolton in sixth place and Accrington in 10th place.

Rightmove says that since the housing market reopened in England on May 13, the release of pent-up demand has led to record levels of buyers enquiring about their next home.

Alderley Edge-based Jones Homes has seen a surge in demand for homes in Wilmslow since reopening for appointments earlier this month.

Gemma Pownall, sales and marketing director for Jones Homes north west, said: “Properties in Wilmslow have always held strong appeal.

"As people reconsider their lifestyles post-lockdown, it is easy to see why this picturesque town with a thriving independent retail scene and strong transport links would be so high on their wish lists.

READ > Plans lodged for new Shell kiosk in Adlington Road

“We have certainly seen a high level of interest since housing sales resumed, with enquiries and bookings for personal appointments coming to our sales teams and via Rightmove.

“Our customers have told us that they are especially keen to find a new home in Wilmslow. They want to be the first occupants and for everything to be new, modern and completed to the highest standards.”