Visitor Information

Address and Contact Information

Wigan Archive Service, Town Hall, Leigh, Lancashire WN7 1DY
Telephone: 01942 404 430
Fax: 01942 404 425
heritage@wlct.org

Opening Times – By Appointment
Tuesday: 10:00am-4:30pm
Wednesday: 10:00am-4:40pm
Thursday: 10:00am-4:30pm
Saturday & Thursday evening access once a month at Leigh Local Studies in Leigh Library.

Access
Access can be gained to the archive collections by making an appointment with the Archivist. All visits made to the archive to view records must be booked in advance to allow for the retrieval of records. Records can be requested by telephone, email or letter; please discuss your requirements in advance with the archivist.

Facilities for Readers
The searchroom accommodates up to eight readers, in addition to one microfilm and one microfiche reader. We are situated in on the second floor of Leigh Town Hall. Access to The People's Network is available in the searchroom. The searchroom is accessible by lift.

The Museum of Wigan Life and Leigh Library
Family History enquiries should firstly be directed to the Museum of Wigan Life at heritage@wlct.org or (01942) 828128. Parish registers must be viewed on microfilm by appointment either at Leigh Library (01942 404559) or the History Shop. In special circumstances, if the microfilm entry is poor, the original register can be viewed at the discretion of the archivist.

Reproduction of Documents
Wherever possible we try to reproduce documents either by photocopying or photography. Material will only be produced after consultation with the archivist and an assessment of the physical condition and size of the documents. Prints of most items in the photographic collection may be supplied, subject to copyright.

Charges
Orders can be made at the Archive Service for photocopying and for reproductions from the photographic collections. Current prices for producing copies can be obtained from both the Archive and the History Shop.

Security and Conservation
All visitors to the Archive searchroom are required to enter their full name and address in the register provided. All documents must be returned to a member of staff after use. No item may be removed from the search room except by a member of staff. Access to items which are very fragile or damaged may be refused in the interests of conservation.

All customers are asked to please put bags (including handbags) or briefcases in the lockers provided.