GM Mayor pushes for second look at warehouse planning policy
Summary
Greater Manchester Mayor Bev Craig has called for lessons to be learned from the approval of PLP’s Astley Park industrial scheme in Wigan, following strong local opposition over its proximity to homes. An independent audit found Wigan Council followed national planning procedure, but said the developer’s pre-application consultation was wholly inadequate.
Why it matters
The case highlights how industrial and logistics schemes near residential areas can trigger scrutiny of planning policy, consultation quality and local decision-making. Surveyors involved in planning, development appraisal or due diligence should note the potential for similar objections and policy review pressure on comparable sites.
Key points
- Bev Craig said the Astley Park scheme should prompt a review of planning process lessons.
- The development has drawn national criticism from nearby residents and campaigners.
- An independent audit found the council followed standard procedure, but consultation by the developer was inadequate.
- The scheme was approved on land allocated for warehousing since 2006.
- The issue is being cited in objections to other industrial and logistics proposals in Greater Manchester.
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