MAJOR improvements to Atherton's main shopping street have got the green light -- and pedestrians will be the first to benefit from the new look.

Market Street is to be made more pedestrian-friendly as part of a £400,000 package of improvements that will see cars kept out of the centre for much of the day.

Work is due to start in the next few weeks and will include: widening and repairing of footpaths, realignment of the road to reduce traffic speeds, resurfacing of carriageways, new benches and litterbins, improved street lighting, new high-quality bus shelters, provision of cycle stands and relocated pedestrian crossing.

Once completed, Market Street between Crab Tree Lane and Hampson Street will be closed to vehicles (except buses) between 10.30am and 4.00pm, Monday to Saturday. The scheme will be experimental for 12 months and access for deliveries will be available outside of these hours, along with access to homes being maintained.

The transport plans are part of the final phase in the Leigh to Bolton 'Quality Bus Corridor'. Chair of the ABC board, Cllr Susan Loudon said: "The scheme represents a major investment in Atherton by Wigan Council and Atherton's Building Communities Board and the improvements will create a more enjoyable environment for residents, visitors and businesses, whilst improving pedestrian safety."

Also, part of Mealhouse Lane is being converted to allow vehicles travelling in both directions better access to the town's main car parks. Measures to reduce traffic speed will also be introduced on Mealhouse Lane, along with additional crossing points for pedestrians.