TOP TALKS have overcome delays to restoring the tranquility of Leigh's war memorial gardens.

Contractors bidding for the £90,000 scheme, which is an attempt to rid the area of the 'undesirable element' who vandalise the Church Street site, have put in tenders £40,000 over the council's budget.

But on Monday night, councillors and officers pledged themselves to find the extra cash.

They had three options on Monday: dropping some of the original planned work, phasing the scheme or finding new money to complete all the work.

Leigh councillor Keith Cunliffe said: "I'm delighted that we've found the extra money to do the work."

The council had hoped to start the work last month. It will now be finished in mid-summer.

In an effort to deter vandalism, local councillors want a new series of CCtv cameras to monitor the area.

"Some of the cash will come from the Risk Managment budget and the remainder from the Leisure Department.

"We are determined to do all we can to make sure this area of town vandal-free and again a fitting place for people to remember those who gave their lives for our freedom," said Cllr Cunliffe.

The scheme involves removing high hedges and railing around the War Memorial to create an open plan aspect, although new railing will be erected and mature trees left in place. The footpaths will be restored with new litter bins and seats, in the town's black and gold livery, installed.

The project is also being funded by cash from the Landfill Site Tax and the Brighter Borough initiative.

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