SPINNING Gate Shopping Centre in Leigh has heaped praise on a scheme which has introduced free parking at weekends.

The site has enjoyed a five per cent rise in footfall since Wigan Council introduced free parking to local authority sites in the town centre on Saturday, September 15.

The free parking will run until January 31.

Centre manager Karen Cox said "What a fantastic initiative this is to help and support our town centres.

Free weekend car parking for customers in Leigh provides an opportunity to remind shoppers to shop local, attract more visitors and rediscover what our town has to offer.

"The investment certainly encourages shoppers to return to high street shopping.

"We welcome the initiative and the boost for the town."

Wigan Council have received complimentary comments from residents.

Free parking has also been introduced in Wigan town centre for the same period of time.

Becca Heron, director for economy and skills at the council, said: “We’ve had very positive feedback from shoppers and visitors who have been taking advantage of the free car parking at weekends to support local traders in Leigh.

"With Christmas coming up we expect to see many more people coming to Leigh and buying local while making the most of the free parking."