Wigan Borough in Bloom
During the last few years, the council has planted over 2.5 million bulbs and trees across the borough. The majority of the planting was undertaken by a partnership involving the council, British Trust for Conservation Volunteers, Wigan Rotary Club, Youth Offending Teams, Police Cadets and Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust.
Many more daffodil and crocus bulbs have been planted by a host of community groups and schools working with the council's Street Scene team. Perennial low maintenance flower beds have been planted off Spinning Jenny Way in Leigh, Liverpool Road Ashton and Darlington Street in Wigan.
Tree planting, in locations such as Bolton Road Aspull, Crow Orchard Road Standish and Woodhouse Lane Beech Hill, have further enhanced the local street scene. Over 400 extra heavy trees have been planted in the last three years.
For the 2007 bid, local firm Metrolite (external link), who employ disabled people to manufacture eco-friendly items, together with Wigan Council, have joined forces to provide attractive street planters in Leigh, Ashton, Platt Bridge and Wigan. With bright plants and carefully chosen flowers, they are set to become a permanent fixture on our streets where digging down to plant trees would be impossible due to underground cables.
At least 30 of the unique planters are being placed around the borough, with the promise of more to come if people like them. Council environmental experts will ensure spring, winter and summer bulbs are planted to provide year-round colour.
Northwest in Bloom
In Autumn 2006, Wigan celebrated its first success in the Northwest in Bloom competition. The town bagged a runners-up prize at the first attempt and in face of stiff competition from Rochdale, Trafford and Tameside councils (see photo above right of councillors, volunteers and officers).
At the ceremony at the Blackpool Hilton Hotel, the prestigious ‘Blooms’ were presented by the Lord Lieutenant of Lancashire Lord Shuttleworth.
A recent survey of people in Wigan town centre revealed that 47 per cent said that new floral displays were the most recognisable recent additions to the town.
Also at the Northwest in Bloom ceremony, the Wigan North Township Forum was recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society’s Neighbourhood Awards.
Please contact the team if you, or your group, want to get involved in planting, litter picks or environmental improvement works towards Wigan Borough in Bloom 2007.
