AN MP is putting his weight behind moves to attract top high street stores to Leigh.

Andy Burnham believes the new Spinning Gate extension will help bring more shoppers to Leigh.

He says this will be bosted by the housing growth on Leigh's doorstep in Lowton, Culcheth, Pennington, Atherton and Hindley Green.

He said: "Many vacant properties on Bradshawgate, Market Street, Lord Street and Railway Road are in prime locations.

"I believe they could be of interest to high-street retailers."

He praised the efforts of town centre manager Laurie Barton and management group chairman Cllr Brian Jarvis, and said: "Leigh has a lot to offer as a shopping centre.

"It is well located, has a compact and pedestrianised shopping area with a friendly atmosphere.

"There have been many improvements in recent years, thanks largely to the work of Leigh Town Centre Management.

"For those looking to expand in the North-west, Leigh could offer a good option."

Mr Burnham wants to meet Wigan's chief executive Stephen Jones to discuss an action plan.

The suggestion is that high profile retailers and leisure companies should be targeted, with cinema and bowling facilities high on the hitlist.

Mr Barton said: "Although our town centre vacancy rate is in line with national figures, I'd like to see the vacant units filled."