Leigh masterplan underway

Wigan Council’s Economic Regeneration Office has appointed a team of property consultants to prepare a feasibility study and masterplan for Leigh town centre.

The commission, to DTZ, EDAW and Faber Maunsell, is being funded by the Northwest Regional Development Agency. The same consortium was commissioned to prepare a masterplan for Wigan South Central in 2007. 

It is hoped the masterplan will act as a platform for future private sector investment, a lobbying tool to galvanise public sector investment and a framework for public-private partnership.

Caroline Baker, director at DTZ, said: “Although Leigh is the main shopping and employment location in the east of the borough there is significant concern that it is suffering from major leakage to neighbouring centres such as Bolton, Manchester and the Trafford Centre.

“Through this commission we will seek to build upon the town’s assets, including its heritage, waterways and loyal local customers to create a more viable future for the town.”

Lord Smith, leader of Wigan Council and elected member for Leigh said:  “Despite the current economic turmoil, there are a number of exciting projects being delivered in Leigh including Leigh Sports Village, Bickershaw and the regeneration of the Turnpike Centre.

“We want to ensure that Leigh and its local residents and businesses benefit from the significant investment on the edges of the town centre.  This commission demonstrates the Council’s commitment to ensuring that Leigh is best placed to compete with other retail and leisure destinations across the northern part of Greater Manchester.”