The continuing renaissance of Leigh reaches another milestone this week as the little used multi-storey car park on Bengal Street makes way for new and attractive landscaped parking by the town hall.
Contractors are part way through clearing the site. As part of their work, they will also be demolishing the adjoining toilet block which has become notorious for drugs litter and antisocial behaviour.
The council’s cabinet lead for the environment and Leigh ward member, Cllr Kevin Anderson, says: “It’s a shame we have to lose the Bengal Street toilets, but as most people will know, they have been abused for years and are simply costing us too much to maintain. We are actively looking at alternatives which will be safer and better fit for purpose.”
Local leaders have pledged that new facilities will be made available and paid for through Section 106 funds from the developers currently working in Leigh.
The car park site will be used as part of the upcoming Jubi-Leigh party in the town centre on Bank Holiday 4 June, when it will form a secure base for the celebratory firework launch. The free public event, on the Civic Square, begins at 7pm and culminates in the lighting of a Diamond Jubilee Beacon by the Mayor and patriotic singing. Toilet facilities and children’s rides will also be available.
“Leigh is continuing to see major investment,” adds Cllr Anderson. “We’ve come on in the last few years with the Sports Village, new cinema, restaurants and improved parking. Developers have a real faith in the local economy with new stores being built and I am pleased we are now able to address concerns about the issues on Bengal Street as we reshape Leigh for the best.”
