LEIGH could be the 'Orlando of the future' with Xanadu. And the project would be the biggest thing the town has ever, or would ever, see the 'Skis for Leigh' meeting was told.

Businessman Alan Jones, chairing the Liberal Club debate, attended by 75 people, said: "The community has to say 'yes' to this plan because it is for the greater, economic well-being of the town.

"It has to come to Leigh for the greater benefit of the 50,000 people who live and work in the town."

And Alex McLachan, a director of Moorfield Estates, said the site was 'unique for a unique project' of local, regional and national importance.

"This has never been built anywhere in the world...a leisure scheme completely oblivious to the elements," said Mr McLachan.

He said Xanadu would be heavily themed taking in a tropical wave pool, a 20-30 screen multiplex cinema, two hotels, aquatic centre, virtual reality rides and the indoor snow and ski facility.

"It's going to be a big building. It's going to be an exciting building.

"We are working on the design of the building and going through this process of consultation."

Council leader Peter Smith said much of the labour used on building the £150 million snow dome would be recruited locally.

"We are looking at training local people to take the jobs," he said.

Cllr Smith added that Xanadu would bring a £50 million boost to the economy and change the town's image.

"It will transform the way Leigh is viewed.

"And we will see benefits for our children and our children's children."

But he warned protestors: "There is a lot to play for. There's a great deal at risk if Xanadu does not happen in Leigh. If it doesn't happen in Leigh, it will happen somewhere else.

"The people who don't want Xanadu should think of the damage it would do to this town. We have an opportunity and we should grasp it.

"If you want to turn your back on terrific opportunities, it doesn't say a lot for this town."

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.