A new town square

Background

Leigh's civic square is home to the Turnpike, the Town Hall and St Mary's Parish Church, key buildings in the town centre. At present, there's a significant detachment of the square to the rest of the town centre. Leigh’s Civic Square is the only major public square in the town centre, at present it is underutilised public space, though it has the potential to become a critical events space within the town centre. It has already been identified by Wigan Council as a site of opportunity and a potential project from the Believe in Leigh Fund.

Proposal

Besides their physical and ecological roles, public squares contribute hugely to the social cohesion and local identity.

A simple re-landscaping as well as good organisation will bring new life back to a once thriving town square.

This currently underutilised space could be used for a variety of events throughout the year. Craft and food markets, open-air live events, seasonal and festive markets. Ideally positioned outside the Turnpike gallery, library, town hall and potential new business hub, this is a natural space for large events and gatherings in the town. With easy access to potential dining and leisure on Market Street, following on to retail on Bradshawgate.

Key to the success of the new town square, the current dual-carriageway, Market Place, that prevents easy access to the rest of the town would be made more pedestrian friendly. Slowing traffic, removing the central divide and introducing more crossings would create a much safer space for people to enjoy events on the town square.