CARBON-REDUCTION projects in Leigh are part of the Council's ambitions to create a cleaner borough and meet the demands of the climate crisis.

After declaring a climate emergency in July 2019, Wigan Council have created sixteen hectares of species-rich grassland with approximately 60,000 trees planted.

Six Bee Network schemes have been completed in Leigh and the wider borough, which will connect walking and cycling routes across the borough.

Decarbonisation projects are also underway at Leigh Sports Village, Howe Bridge and Leigh’s Turnpike Centre, which includes the implementation of air and ground source heat pumps, LED lighting, solar power, and energy-efficient windows.

Councillor Paul Prescott, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “We know from speaking to residents that having a cleaner, greener borough is a real priority, and tackling the climate crisis is a key part of making sure that our borough will be enjoyed for a long time to come.

“Having good air quality, energy efficient homes and access to green spaces and well-connected active travel routes are things that have a benefit on all of our lives.”

Pledging to become carbon net-zero by 2038, the Council state that these projects are examples of delivering on their climate targets.

Future plans include creating low traffic neighbourhoods and restricted car zones around schools, retrofitting homes to improve their energy efficiency and providing further options for active travel across the borough.

Cllr Prescott added: “This is only the beginning of our journey, but at Wigan Council we’re really proud of our ongoing work on climate change which spans across the whole borough.

“We can all play our own part in tackling the climate crisis and we are really grateful for the personal efforts residents make too – in line with the Deal - which is illustrated so clearly in things like our high recycling rates.”