News - Willow Wonder

It’s safety and style in the centre of Leigh as an impressive piece of living art is installed in the town centre.

Traffic engineers have been concerned about people crossing near the busy Market Street junction. But with the Civic Square now being used as Leigh’s attractive focal point for floral displays and public events, it was decided that metal railings just wouldn’t do.

Community leaders have instead opted for a willow sculpture designed by a local artist which would be installed on the central reservation to prevent unauthorised and dangerous crossings.

“This is strictly a safety first scheme to protect pedestrians and road users,” says the council’s In Bloom Co-ordinator, Damian Jenkinson, “But Leigh has done so well with our efforts at North West in Bloom that something a bit special was decided upon.”

The willow design is hard wearing and durable. It will be planted with annual bedding at its base, with climbing plants used to soften the look of the sculpture. The intention is to add to the greening of Leigh and fit in with the tiered “eye full towers” on the square itself which are funded by the township forum.

Damian adds:

“People took a great deal of interest in it as we installed it this week and were reassured to know it will look even better as the flowers grow on the willows.”

The new feature has been installed by local volunteers and funded from the Local Transport Plan. It is the first of a series of major environmental improvements planned for Market Street and Bradshawgate this summer, including replanting of the flower beds around the library.

The borough has been a finalist at three successive North West in Bloom events, and the judges tour includes visits to Leigh and Atherton to see community activities, local planting and public art initiatives.