A £2.4M makeover to one of Leigh’s most popular visitor attractions is set to get underway.

The new facilities included in the major plans at Pennington Flash Nature Reserve in Leigh include a visitor centre and cafe.

The work is due to start in March with the project scheduled to be complete by the end of summer.

In a statement Councillor Keith Cunliffe, deputy leader at Wigan Council, said: “We know how popular Pennington Flash is with our residents and we’re delighted to see the plans taking shape.

“This year is a big one for Leigh with the Euros and the Rugby League World Cup, and this project will provide top-class facilities to help more people enjoy the great greenspaces our borough has to offer.”

The café will offer a full view of the flash and an outdoor decking area along with new toilets and a visitor information centre.

Car parking facilities will be improved with resurfacing, electric vehicle charging points, better lighting, and a new overflow car park.

Work will also begin on upgrading the footpaths around the car park and putting eco-friendly features into the current buildings.

Future plans for the site include a new natural play area with works planned to start late summer.

Councillor Cunliffe added: “These plans will help address some of the priority areas highlighted by residents during the Believe in Leigh survey and Big Listening Project, providing great facilities for all our residents to enjoy.”

The development work at Pennington Flash has been possible due to the Believe in Leigh fund launched by Wigan Council.