XANADU developers have put in a planning application for a new railway station.

It would serve as a replacement station for Leigh as well as transporting visitors to and from the leisure complex.

If Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott approves Xanadu - which will bring over 2,000 new jobs - after the coming public inquiry, Leigh will be on the rails again after a 30 year gap.

The station plan is a joint scheme from developers Greenbank and Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive.

It would mean reinstating the former station at Kenyon Junction and linking it to Xanadu and Leigh town centre with a frequent shuttle bus service.

The idea is to also provide park and ride facilities for rail travellers fro the Leigh, Lowton, Golborne and Culcheth areas who want to travel to Manchester, Liverpool, Warrington and beyond.

Warrington Council's planning committee will deliberate on the scheme because it lies within their boundaries.

Cllr Tom Sherratt, Deputy Leader of Wigan Council, and a committed supporter of rail transport, has welcomed the idea.

He says: "This is a fantastic step forward, not simply for Xanadu, but for all the people in this area.

"After 30 years we will again have our own local station. This will provide new opportunities and travel choices to and from Liverpool and Manchester.

"It is the perfect complement to the guided busway and in the longer term will help relieve road congestion."

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