FOUR neglected streets in Leigh are in line for a £400,000 energy efficiency makeover.

Wigan Council is offering to help pay for improvement work to be carried out on houses in Glebe Street, Gordon Street, Prescott Street and Selwyn Street, which could significantly reduce the amount residents pay to heat their homes.

The properties, which are more than a hundred years old, have been identified as particularly inefficient in terms of energy use.

The council will provide interest free loans to residents and landlords who will then be able to apply for a government grant to have the work done on their homes.

Improvements include external wall installation, replacing single-glazed windows with double-glazing and installing new energy efficient doors.

Council leader Lord Peter Smith said: “We are making the most of a six-month window of opportunity to claim government funding for this work, which will improve the appearance of houses in the area and reduce fuel bills for the occupants at a time when many people are struggling to make ends meet.”

The council hopes the pilot project will bring wider regeneration benefits and energy savings.

The £400,000 made available by the council will be matched by the government through its Green Deal cash back scheme.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham said: “It is extremely good news the council has found this money to invest in a scheme that will not only improve the physical appearance of these streets but also save the residents a significant amount of money.”

Applications must be made before September 30.

For further information, call Wigan Council Housing Service on 01942 489220.