Why does one street in Leigh town centre have seven barber shops?

Plans to open a seventh barbershop within a half-mile stretch of road have sparked debate about the future of a town centre.

Farhad Hassan said he had applied to convert a former dog-grooming salon on Chapel Street in Leigh, Greater Manchester, because he knew the trade, having worked in the industry for about 10 years, and he had an existing customer base.

But Josh Brown, who co-owns nearby Nellie’s Bistro, said local people “just need something different” from what was already on offer.

Customer Jan, 68, said she remembered Chapel Street being busier and boasting a variety of shops and car showrooms.

“It used to be more thriving,” she said. “When you look around in Leigh, not just in Chapel Street, the number of barbershops, vape shops, nail bars, pound shops, they are really flourishing, whereas other businesses aren’t.”

While acknowledging those businesses were doing well, she asked: “How many barbershops do you need in Leigh?”