Budget setting and key dates in the calendar

Budget setting and key dates in the calendar

Next week will see the council set out our budget plans for 2025/26, with our annual meeting taking place on Wednesday, March 5.

It’s always an important time of the year, giving us an opportunity to outline our priorities for the next 12 months.

Although we continue to face ongoing pressures – like all local authorities across the country – we are confident our budget will be a blueprint for continued growth.

And in keeping with our Progress With Unity plans, we’re looking forward to highlighting our support for projects that deliver for our residents.

We will continue to create jobs and skills opportunities for our current and future workforces, back our amazing community networks and prioritise our frontline services.

Next month also sees some significant dates in our calendar.

On Saturday, March 8, International Women’s Day is marked across the world.

The day provides a brilliant opportunity to celebrate the contribution of women to our borough.

There is lots of activity planned across Wigan Borough, including here in Leigh, throughout the week.

An evening with Miriam Gold, the granddaughter of inspirational local GP Dr Elena Zadik is taking place at Leigh Library on Thursday, March 6 from 6.30pm.

Community groups are also getting involved with Leigh Soroptimists hosting a Women for Women showcase at Pennington Wharf Community Hub, between 11.30am and 2.30pm on International Women’s Day itself.

Early March will also see us mark the national Covid-19 Day of Reflection. Residents are invited to visit our two dedicated spaces at Lilford Park in Leigh and Mesnes Field at any time of the year, but particularly on the Sunday, March 9.

Council representatives, alongside our health service colleagues, will be attending a short ceremony at our Places of Reflection on Friday, March 7.

It is important that we continue to remember and acknowledge the sacrifices made during the pandemic and we’re proud that our two dedicated spaces are open to the public and have been since last year.

As a final note, in my previous column I highlighted that the Battle of the Borough was the opening game of the Super League season; and what a battle it was!

The Leopards gained their first away win at Wigan in the Super League era in dramatic fashion with a golden point drop-goal. What a way to start the season and an excellent showcase for the borough.

For a full list of activities and events visit International Women’s Day.