Community call out to spend regeneration funding in Leigh

Community call out to spend regeneration funding in Leigh

Members of Leigh Neighbourhood Board

Leigh’s Neighbourhood Board is looking for help from the community on how to spend millions of pounds worth of regeneration funding in Leigh.

Last year, the independently chaired board put forward outline plans for the £20m Pride in Place programme, a ten-year project designed to create vibrant, safer, healthier neighbourhoods where communities can thrive.

With the outline plans approved by Wigan Council - acting as the accountable body for the administration of the funds - and the UK government, the board are now eager to hear from those with an interest in Leigh on how the money should be invested.

Alex Grundy, local business owner and chair of the board, said: “It’s fantastic that the government formally approved the board’s outline plans, but I know how important it is that we spend this money wisely and ensure that the investment makes a difference.

“The board is already made up of people who all have a connection to our town, but we want to listen to the community as much as possible and invite local people to put forward proposals for how this money is spent.

“As a proud Leyther, I think this is a really significant time for the town and I’m really excited to hear the ideas and suggestions that could help improve our community.”

With more than 1,500 responses from last year’s public consultation helping to guide the board’s long-term objectives - to create a thriving town that empowers people to take control of their community - two funds have been launched to identify specific projects and direct the investment.

Aiming to build a strong pipeline of deliverable and impactful projects, The Leigh Fund invites Leigh residents, businesses, public sector organisations, charities, community and voluntary groups to propose medium to large projects that will transform how people see and experience Leigh, and to create a safe and welcoming town.

Meanwhile, The Community Fund invites those from Leigh’s community and voluntary sector for small scale, community-led activities that will build pride, cohesion, and connections.

Around £7m is set to be released for projects in the first investment period, between April 2026 and March 2030, with the board also looking to secure additional funding to help to create a safer town with a thriving high street and strong community.

This funding is separate to the £11.4m Leigh Regeneration Fund, which is earmarked for specific projects to revamp Civic Square, improve high street shop fronts, and refurbish Leigh Market.

Councillor Keith Cunliffe, ward member for Leigh Central and Higher Folds, said: “The Leigh Neighbourhood Board is a prime example of what can be achieved when a community works together for a shared goal.

“All the people involved want the best for Leigh, and after listening to further feedback from the local community, I’m sure they will formulate a string of projects that reflects the identity and priorities of local people, and build a better future.”

• Project applications must support the objectives of the Regeneration Plan.
• Guidance Notes on the application process and further information can be found on our Call for Projects page
• Completed forms and any enquiries should be sent through the Leigh Pride in Place Projects online form (external link) before the deadline of 5pm on Friday 12th June 2026
• Further information will also be shared at webinars on Monday 11th May, at 12pm and Tuesday 19th May 5pm to 6pm
• Drop-in sessions will also take place at Leigh Library on Friday 15th May 10am to 12pm, Thursday 21st May 11am to 1pm, Friday 29th May 11am to 1pm, and Friday 5th June 11am to 1pm.

To register for either event, please complete the the Leigh Pride in Place Projects online form (external link).