FUNDING for the planned Bradshawgate pedestrianisation extension scheme will be lost if it does not win approval.

Leigh's Town Centre Management Committee, which is appealing to residents to have their say on the new proposals for the section from Vernon Street to Brown Street North, says the substantial amount of money allocated could go to another town.

Consultation leaflets inviting public comment have been placed in Leigh Town Hall and Leigh Library.

When the plan was revealed late last year it sparked off opposition from 30 traders in the Queen Street area who organised a petition against the scheme on the grounds that it would harm trade.

Opposed

At last week's meeting of the committee some traders again opposed the proposals, which the council says will create an environment where people will want to work and visit shops and businesses.

It will remove unnecessary traffic, while still allowing access to all properties, create a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists and improve the appearance of the street making it blend in with the existing area and provide additional seating.

Chairman of the management committee, Cllr Brian Jarvis, said: "This money has to be spent on this scheme or Leigh could lose it to another town. We are trying to reach a compromise.

Own town

"It was decided that before a decision is made we should enter into wider consultation so that everyone in Leigh can have their say what should happen in their own town.

"We deferred our decision until next month by which time we should have a report on the consultations and a decision can be made. Anyone who wishes to have an input can also contact their local councillors or the highways department."