A WELL-used stretch of canal towpath is set to be transformed thanks to a £250,000 funding boost.

The mile-long stretch of path on the Bridgewater Canal, running from Higher Green Lane to the Wigan/Salford boundary in Astley, is earmarked for the upgrade.

A funding bid by Wigan Council to the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Challenge Fund has been recommended for approval by Transport for Greater Manchester.

With match funding coming from Wigan Council and Peel Land and Property.

The funding is set to be given the official green light by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority later this month.

These works will mark the completion of the Bridgewater Way in Wigan, creating 20 miles of upgraded towpath connecting Leigh to Manchester city centre.

The path will get improved access points and signage.

Cllr Christine Roberts, speaking on behalf of Astley Mosley Common ward councillors, said: “This is very good news for the community.

“I am sure everyone who uses this part of the towpath will be happy to see this upgrade take place.”

General Manager of the Bridgewater Canal, Peter Parkinson added: “The whole team is excited about seeing progress on site.

“Enabling works such as vegetation clearance and the installation of a timber fence are due to start on site before the end of the year.

“Subject to final Challenge Fund approval in January, the second phase of work to upgrade the surface of the towpath up to the borough boundary is scheduled to begin in the new year, with the whole programme of improvement works due to finish in March 2019.”

The bid will be formally reported to the Greater Manchester Combined Authority meeting which takes place on Friday, December 14.