Leigh public realm project on track for completion

The halfway mark has been reached on a £1m public realm improvement programme in Leigh town centre, Wigan Council has said.

The 20-week project on Bradshawgate and Albion Street forms part of a £5m “Believe in Leigh” investment programme, which also includes improvements to Pennington Flash country park and further town centre initiatives.

The public realm improvements will see block paving, seating, LED lighting and tree planters create a more attractive space for shoppers, visitors and businesses, said the council. Construction partner Idverde UK is now laying the block paving in phases.

Cllr David Molyneux, Wigan Council’s cabinet member for regeneration, said: “It’s great to see the regeneration of Leigh town centre is now more than halfway through and on schedule.

“We thank all businesses in Bradshawgate and the surrounding streets affected by the construction for their patience. The works are being delivered in a way to keep disruption to a minimum.

“Once the regeneration is complete both businesses and shoppers will benefit from a much improved environment which will increase the attractiveness of the town centre as a destination for shopping and leisure.”

Michael Coyne, project manager for Idverde UK, said: “We will be installing the street furniture and trees in the coming weeks so people will really start to see the improvements take shape.”

When work are completed, Leigh’s outdoor market stalls will relocate to a central location on Bradshawgate with increased visibility and improved access to the stalls, with the intention being to give an improved profile to the outdoor market and create a better approach to the indoor market along Albion Street.