Bolton West and Atherton MP, Chris Green, and James Grundy, MP for Leigh have joined with Atherton Councillors to urge Wigan Council to submit a Levelling Up Fund bid for Atherton Town Centre. With the deadline for applications fast approaching, Wigan Council had decided not to put in a Levelling Up Fund bid for Atherton. This was done without any consultation, but we still have time for Wigan Council to have a change of heart and look after our town.
The Levelling Up Fund was intended to provide money for local projects and town centre regeneration, with the Wigan Borough placed in the highest bidding priority category.
The Atherton masterplan, which has been approved by Wigan Council provides a number of “shovel-ready” projects in Atherton that meet the funding criteria and would drive business and growth in the town.
Commenting on the story, Mr Green said: “For too long, Atherton has been neglected by Wigan Council’s Labour leadership, which is why I have joined with James and the three Atherton Cllr’s to urge Wigan Council to apply for the vital funding and resources we need to invest in the local community.”
Cllr Stuart Gerrard also added: “As local councillors we have worked hard to secure a plan that will promote Atherton and hopefully allow it to fulfil its potential.
“What we now need is Wigan Council to do their part and secure the funding needed to kickstart the town.”
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