The Leigh Civic Square project was funded by the UK Government through the Local Regeneration Fund, previously known as the Levelling Up Fund. The square was officially opened by the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Anne Collins on 10th September 2026.
The works to the square create an attractive and flexible space for community events, cultural activities and public gatherings.
Improvements include:
- New natural stone paving
- Increased lighting
- New and improved seating
- Replacement trees
The square also offers play opportunities through a series of stepping stones. These include designs inspired by local buildings, as well as details of some of the trees and flowers planted in the square.
Community and heritage
The design reflects and celebrates Leigh's history and heritage. Including the Still-bright poem written by the Leigh Young Writers, with support from local poets Louise Fazackerly and Natasha Tingle.
We have also refreshed the popular Leigh Believe Stars, which recognise people who have made a significant contribution to the town. The stars have been upgraded using natural stone, so they fit the new look of the square and continue to inspire future generations with stories of local achievement and pride.
The Pete Shelley Memorial Garden has also been improved and now includes a cherry tree, which is expected to blossom around Pete Shelley’s birthday in April.
In addition, a historic timeline has been created with support from Leigh, Atherton and Tyldesley Heritage Trust. It highlights key moments in the history of the square.
Accessibility
The square has been designed to be accessible and welcoming for everyone, you can find:
- Benches at different heights
- Seating with backrests and armrests
- Clear and direct pedestrian routes
- Sensory planting with a variety of colours, textures and heights
- The poem and heritage timeline are available in Braille and British Sign Language (BSL)
Benefits for Leigh
The improvements are expected to:
- Create a more attractive town centre environment
- Encourage more visitors to the area
- Support local businesses
- Provide opportunities for community events and activities
- Improve the overall experience for residents and visitors
Work still to be completed
The main improvements are complete and the square is open for public use. There are minor works and maintenance taking place but these will not impact access.
Some of the permanent bollards need to be specially designed and made. To make sure the square remains safe and secure, temporary concrete blocks have been installed until the permanent bollards can be fitted. Once they are ready, the concrete blocks will be removed.
Some of the trees haven't been planted yet as they can only be planted during the dormant season (November to March). These trees will be planted from November onwards.
Consultation
Engagement with the community to help co-design the space took place between September 2024, and December 2024 through:
- Pop-up events
- Community group drop-in events
- Young people’s workshops
- Online surveys
- Consultation with inclusion and disability groups and the emergency service
Phase 1: Understanding the current issues with the space, as well as getting views on design and material preferences, and ideas on how to use the space.
Phase 2: Presenting a draft outline design and collecting community feedback.
Looking ahead
The Civic Square will be a key place for community and cultural events for many years to come. If you or the community group you represent, would like to book the square for an event, please contact the Regeneration team.