WORK to transform the Leigh Branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is under way.

A campaign was launched earlier in the year using the canal as a catalyst for regeneration.

The first phase is due to be completed in time for the Leigh Canal Festival on September 11-13..

Volunteers, alongside landscaping firm Groundwork will transform the King Street area by tidying overgrown vegetation, screening concrete fencing and planting new hedging.

Artwork and sculptures including a giant arm seat and vertical timber sleepers with engraved artwork representing the canal uses and history of the area will be installed.

Canal and River Trust waterways manager Chantelle Seaborn said: “The rejuvenation of the canal in Leigh has the ability to kick start wider regeneration in the town centre and help the town capitalise on the benefits for local businesses as well as providing a lovely environment for people to enjoy living next to, or visiting. The canal also offers a unique opportunity for local people to get involved and help create a real community asset.”

The work on the Leigh Branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is being carried out and funded by the Canal and River Trust’s Friends Fund which is supported by public donations in partnership with Wigan Council. The Bridgewater Canal Company is also backing the project.

Twelve councillors from the Leigh and Atherleigharea have donated a total of £3,500 to the Trust.

Councillor Kevin Anderson, cabinet member for environment at Wigan Council, who donated £1,000, said: “The Brighter Borough scheme has benefited hundreds, if not thousands of people across Wigan Borough since its launch in 1997. I’m really pleased that I and my fellow councillors have been able to support the rejuvenation of this entrance to the Leigh canal and I look forward to seeing it once it’s complete.”