‘It’s a feeling of being screwed over’: once-quiet village despairs over ‘monster’ warehouse

Residents of Astley, Greater Manchester, say an 18-metre-high Whistl warehouse has brought persistent noise and disruption to their homes, with some reporting sleep loss, anxiety and depression. Their concerns will be heard at a two-day public inquiry this week as they challenge plans for dozens of HGVs and trailers to serve the site around the clock.

The warehouse was built on farmland after many residents had moved into the area; a local family says its children avoid the garden and bedroom because of noise and the building’s presence. Wigan council says it acted properly in approving the development, though its leader has acknowledged lessons for future consultations. The dispute reflects wider opposition to large industrial developments, and local leaders have scrapped plans for four other warehouses following backlash.