Burnham raised safety concerns about Manchester ‘megashed’, inquiry hears
Summary
A British transport inquiry is examining Whistl’s request to increase the number of heavy goods vehicles serving its warehouse in Astley, Greater Manchester. Residents say lorry traffic, noise and light have harmed their health and daily lives, while concerns have also been raised about children sharing roads with lorries near a primary school.Key Facts
- Whistl seeks to raise the site’s HGV limit from 40 to 50 and its trailer limit from 60 to 70.
- Deputy transport commissioner John Baker opened the inquiry after significant local opposition to the warehouse’s round-the-clock operation.
- Andy Burnham wrote to the transport commissioner’s office in February to oppose Whistl’s plans, citing a lack of safe pedestrian crossings and narrow or missing pavements on lorry routes.
- Residents told the inquiry that lorry noise and light disrupt sleep and have affected their wellbeing.
- Resident David Gerrard said he counted 113 wagons over seven hours, starting at 5:30 a.m.
- Wigan council approved the warehouse in 2024 after a planning application by PLP, a firm partly owned by Peel Group.
- The inquiry’s outcome is expected in early December and is viewed as a test of how local groups can challenge similar developments.
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