PARTS of a vandal-hit former school are being transformed into prestigious Georgian style apartments and bungalows.

Developers Redwaters have almost completed converting two derelict school blocks into luxury homes on the site of the former Leigh CE High School off Old Hall Mill Lane.

Redwaters Managing Director Sean McCaul said: "This is a great example of regeneration in the local area. We have taken two derelict buildings that were subject to misuse and created a high quality scheme that does not detract but enhances the surrounding area.

"We are very proud of this scheme which has been reflected in the unprecedented demand for the properties."

More than 10 years ago Wigan Council closed Leigh CE High School. Pupils were moved to other schools in the area and the school buildings were sold to Kings Park Christian Centre.

But after a few years the Christian Centre found that it was only economically viable to inhabit and run part of the former school.

As a result some of the school blocks feel into disrepair and became a haven for drug users and vandals.

When hypodermic needles were found in the back of two school blocks which was near to an area where children regularly played, Redwaters entered into discussions with the Christian Centre to convert the two problematic blocks.

After some initial objections, the scheme was approved and construction started shortly before Christmas 2001.

Leigh MP Andy Burnham has officially opened the new development and he praised the regeneration work.

"I think they have done a great job. If you look at the buildings before the work began you can see it's a great improvement.

"It all helps to regenerate the town and gives a sense that we are moving forward."

The development, called Inglenook Court, has landscaped gardens and features one bedroom apartments costing from £69,950 and two bedroom bungalows from £99,950.

Leigh company Redwaters have also developed derelict bungalows next to Leigh Harriers into a cul-de-sac of two bedroom bungalows at Stowe Gardens, and the former Albion Buildings Yard near Leigh Bridge, which has been transformed into Waterside Court and the office complex Cavan House.