The school in the shadow of giant ‘cruise ship’ warehouses where children wade through ‘dust clouds’
Parents Alarmed by Noise from Nearby Warehouse Construction
Parents of students at Garrett Hall Primary School in Tyldesley are expressing serious concerns over the disruptive noise and vibrations caused by the construction of massive warehouses nearby. The ongoing development, which features four warehouses towering at 60 feet, has led to complaints about air quality and the overall impact on children’s learning and playtime. While the school’s administration has not commented on the situation, parents are vocal about the adverse effects on their children.
Community Voices Against Warehouse Development
Parents have reported that the noise levels around Garrett Hall Primary School have reached unbearable levels, with one mother, Marta Surdyk, describing the situation as “insane.” Surdyk, whose son attends the school’s special educational needs unit, highlighted the constant disturbances that disrupt classes and outdoor activities. She fears that once the warehouses are operational, the noise from lorries and construction will only worsen, affecting the children’s well-being.
Other parents echoed similar sentiments. Chris Clayton noted that the air quality has deteriorated due to dust clouds from the construction site. He shared that his daughter has complained about the noise during lessons and the discomfort of dust getting into her eyes while playing outside. Another parent, Jamie Randall, mentioned that the vibrations and loud sounds from the construction have left a significant impression on her children, who are astonished by the scale of the project.
In response to the growing discontent, a Facebook group called the Astley and Mosley Common Warehouse Action Group has formed, amassing over 1,200 members. The group is actively fundraising for a judicial review of the planning application, aiming to challenge the decision made by Wigan’s planning committee in June 2024. The committee approved the plans submitted by logistics company PLP, which has drawn ire from local residents who feel their concerns were overlooked.
Official Responses and Community Action
Wigan’s director of planning, Aiden Thatcher, stated that the planning application underwent the necessary consultation and committee processes. He assured the community that landscaping would be implemented to mitigate the visual and auditory impact of the warehouses. However, many residents remain skeptical about the effectiveness of these measures.
Local councillor James Fish, who opposed the development, has called for changes to the planning system to consider the potential decline in property values caused by such developments. Currently, planning committees cannot factor in the impact on property values when making decisions, a point Fish believes needs urgent attention from government officials.
As the construction continues, residents are left grappling with the noise and dust that have become part of their daily lives. The community’s frustration is palpable, with many calling for more transparency and engagement from PLP regarding their concerns. The situation remains tense as parents and residents advocate for their children’s right to a peaceful learning environment.
