A PROJECT backed by Manchester United stars and a Burnley FC director is still on track, according to former England international Gary Neville.

Brendan Flood is partners with Neville and Ryan Giggs in Jackson’s Row Developments, which is looking to construct a new synagogue, five-star hotel, 159 apartments, offices and three three public squares in Manchester city centre.

And to quell speculation that proposals for their £200million St Michael’s development have been withdrawn, the ex-Red Devils defender has spoken out at an international property exhibition.

The 42-year-old said: “Manchester deserves a world class development, like St Michael’s.

“We believe that in a city that aspires to be global, the best of old and best of new can live together, however we are going to make further refinements – it has to be perfect for Manchester.”

Historic England has criticised the ‘skyscrapers’ scheme, which would be erected on the site of an old pub, police station and synagogue

Neville added: “We want to meet the principles and values we set out and that’s to create a world class development for this city.

“There is no doubt that we haven’t pleased everybody over the last six to 12 months.

“We have been in consultation with bodies like Historic England and have tried where possible to listen, and we have made many many changes during the pre-application planning process, and I think ultimately today that we are currently asking the council not to determine the application. We are making final changes and we have to get this right.”

Supporters of the 700,000 square foot scheme insist that it will create 1,500 jobs, where not even a handful currently exist.

The plans, drawn up by Make Architects, are said to have been submitted to Manchester City Council through agents Zerum Consult.

A planning agent said: “‘This development has the potential to change the character of streets in the vicinity.”

Flood is also chairman of Red Partnerships, which has Nelson-based Barnfield Construction as a development partner. He founded the University of Football Business in Burnley and more recently has been involved with the Orlando City Soccer Club franchise in America’s Major League Soccer operation.