WIGAN Council has thanked the people of Atherton for their patience while months of town centre improvements have been carried out.

The town is back in business following the development of a pedestrian priority zone, part of a £1m package of works within the commercial heart.

A spokesman said: "The work is now finished and we would like to thank everyone, particularly the businesses for their endurance.

"It will probably take a little time for everybody to get used to new access arrangements, but once things have settled down the scheme should provide long term benefits."

The new traffic restrictions are operating on a 12 month experimental basis so the council can assess impact.

The pedestrian priority zone from Crab Tree Lane to Hampson Street is now closed to traffic between 10.30am to 4pm Monday to Saturday, although buses will use the street at all times.

Improvements have included new benches and cycle stands, widened pavements, an upgraded bus shelter and traffic calming.

Other work has included the upgrading of the free town centre car parks, improvements to Mealhouse Lane, new pedestrian crossings, better street lights, a new residents' car park at Mealhouse Lane and a new public space in front of the Parish Church.

Town centre co-ordinator Annette Root said: "The town centre is open for business and its good range of independent shops are now located in a more attractive, pedestrian friendly environment."

What do you think of the new centre? Send you comments to the Leigh Journal, 44-46, Railway Road, Leigh, WN7 4AT or lrichards@lancashire.newsquest.co.uk