The controversial plan that could change Wigan town centre forever is to be decided next week

The future of Wigan’s town centre street scene is on the line next week as the Galleries redevelopment will be decided by the Planning Committee.

The former Galleries shopping centre is currently undergoing demolition and now Wigan Council’s committee has the power to approve or reject the proposal for a ‘Multi Media Centre’. This would be the first part of the redevelopment that the council hopes will make the centre a more attractive and vibrant place to live, work and play.

On this site, the Multi Media Centre (MMC) would comprise a six screen, 700 seat cinema, multi-lane bowling alley, indoor mini golf, a climbing wall and a wide range of other indoor leisure activities, according to developers.

Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features

The MMC will also include public events space and a games arcade along with a range of bar and restaurant establishments. The plans for the town centre site have been on the table since an initial planning application was given the green light in 2021.

This £135 million proposal has been subject to criticism from both councillors and residents alike, with the view that the cost is too much during a cost of living crisis which culminated in a 4.99 per cent council tax rise in Spring. Coun James Watson spoke out against the project back in February when the council were discussing the budget.

The Independent Network representative for Atherton questioned the necessity of such a project during the time of financial uncertainty. He wanted to know whether the cost of £135 million was fixed, as the market rates for building materials has been volatile in recent months.

In response, Paul McKevitt, Director of Resources and Contracts