The Challenge

Leigh faces a series of interconnected place‑based challenges, including town centre decline, skills and employment constraints, safety concerns and low civic pride. Although funding had been secured, the area needed a plan that:

• Grounded investment decisions in robust evidence
• Reflected local voices and lived experience
• Aligned community priorities with national Pride in Place objectives
• Established governance capable of sustaining long‑term regeneration

Our Role and Approach

Genecon worked closely with Wigan Council officers and the Leigh Neighbourhood Board, providing strategic, analytical and facilitation support throughout the development of the plan.

Our role was to strengthen—not replace—local leadership. We:

• Ensured the evidence base was robust, current and aligned with national policy
• Translated data, consultation insights and partner perspectives into clear priorities and interventions
• Ensured Board members’ voices were visible and central to the vision, priorities and investment framework

The Neighbourhood Board includes representatives from local businesses, the voluntary and community sector, Leigh Youth Board, Wigan Council, the local MP, Greater Manchester Police, and further education and skills providers. Genecon helped bring this breadth of insight together into a single, coherent and deliverable plan.

What We Did Differently

Rather than adopting a traditional top‑down consultancy model, Genecon acted as a strategic partner and critical friend. Our approach included:

• Embedding evidence and analysis within a community‑led governance structure
• Building on previous work to maintain momentum and avoid duplication
• Supporting the Board to move from vision‑setting to prioritisation and delivery planning
• Ensuring national programme requirements were met without diluting local ownership

The Outcome

The Leigh Pride in Place Regeneration Plan:

• Sets out a clear 10‑year vision and investment framework
• Reflects the priorities of local residents, businesses and stakeholders
• Establishes strong governance, assurance and delivery arrangements
• Provides a platform for turning long‑term funding into tangible outcomes, including early quick wins to build confidence in the Board

The plan positions Leigh to deliver meaningful, community‑driven regeneration over the next decade, underpinned by strong evidence, partnership working and a clear route to delivery.