November Public Inquiry: Astley residents raise £78,000 to fight HGV plan; 131 objectors join case

Residents of Astley, a village in Greater Manchester, are preparing to challenge the proposed expansion of heavy vehicle operations at warehouse complex that has transformed their once-quiet neighbourhood. The dispute, reported by The Guardian, Wigan Today and planning publication Planning Geek, centres on an 18-metre-high distribution warehouse operated by logistics company Whistl, with residents raising £78,000 to fund legal representation at a public inquiry scheduled for November 10 and 11.

The controversy has intensified since Whistl began operating from the site in July 2026. Residents say the constant movement of heavy goods vehicles, loading activity and machinery has disrupted their sleep and made parts of their homes and gardens difficult to enjoy.

The warehouse, located at Astley Business Park, is among four large industrial structures built close to residential properties. Some sections of the development stand approximately 30 metres from nearby homes, leaving residents concerned about the scale of industrial activity taking place alongside their neighbourhood.