- Wigan Borough in Bloom - North West in Bloom Successes

Since 2006, Wigan Borough has competed in North West in Bloom, which is the regional campaign of Britain in Bloom.  It is run by the Royal Horticultural Society and is the largest environmental campaign of its kind in Europe.  Wigan Borough has been very successful in the awards thus far. 

In 2008, the third successive year that the borough has made it through to the finals, Wigan Borough fought off tough competition to take the runner's up prize in the 'Large Metropolitan Borough' category. 

The judges’ visit to key local sites in July was well received, with projects in Atherton, Ashton and the Wigan Flashes attracting particular interest. They also visited Hindley Prison to see first hand the work done by inmates growing plants and flowers for use all around the borough.

The evidence provided by the council’s In Bloom team was considered some of the best the judges had ever seen.

As well as the award, council officers are delighted that the floral displays, eco projects and clean ups are well received by residents. A ‘vox pop’ survey on the streets of Ashton, Leigh and Wigan saw 85% of respondents saying they were either satisfied or very satisfied with the borough’s floral displays.

2006
Best Large City - runner up

Best Small Visitor Attraction - The Galleries Shopping Centre (winner)

2007
Most Improved Borough - overall winner

Best Large City - second place (to Chester)

Best Small Visitor Attraction - The Galleries Shopping Centre (winner)

2008
Large Metropolitan Borough - runner up