LEIGH MP Andy Burnham says the decision to scrap stamp duty on properties under £150,000 in Leigh, Atherton and Hindley is already working.

The measure was announced in the Chancellor's pre-budget report to the House of Commons as a means of stimulating inward investment in some of Britain's most disadvantaged communities.

Leigh Central, Atherton and Hindley are among the wards in the Wigan borough to benefit.

The measure came into effect on November 30 and affects properties costing more than £60,000 but less than £150,000.

Mr Burnham said: "Only this week I spoke to someone who has recently bought a house in Leigh and has benefited from the scrapping of stamp duty.

"This measure can only help encourage more people and businesses to move in to the areas affected. That has got to be good news.

"Parts of the town centre are covered under the scheme and it might help bring in new businesses to some of the available properties.

"It's another way in which Labour is working to help regenerate Leigh."