Public inquiry will examine bid to operate 60 HGVs at controversial Astley warehouse site
“Whistl will be taking a full part in the hearing and has been in frequent contact with the traffic commissioner’s office.”
A public inquiry is to examine logistics firm Whistl’s application to operate up to 60 HGVs and 95 trailers at the controversial Astley Business Park.
The Office of the Traffic Commissioner said the hearing will take place on November 10 and 11 following opposition from dozens of nearby residents.
The commissioner has determined 131 individuals across 96 properties near the giant warehouse complex have valid objections.
These individuals, termed “representors”, will be able to speak at the inquiry.
The company began trading at unit 2 at Astley Business Park in July after being granted an interim licence by the traffic commissioner regarding heavy goods vehicle movements.
Whistl agreed a 15-year lease for the unit with the intention of moving its local operation from Logistics North in Bolton.
But in late August, the firm ended overnight transport operations after admitting noise “has had an impact on nearby residents”.
Since 24-hour operations began, including numerous HGV movements, nearby households reported issues about noise, with some complaining of sleep disturbance, banging and background hum.
The company agreed to cease transport operations between midnight and 6am and introduce more noise mitigation measures.
Ahead of the inquiry, letters will be issued to all objectors to give them details and background into what the public inquiry will entail.
It is understood that in early October the presiding traffic commissioner will visit the operating centre and surrounding area to observe the site.
Astley Warehouse Action Group, which has been critical of the overall site and some of Whistl’s operations, will be represented at the inquiry and is likely to speak on behalf of some objectors.
A spokesperson for the group said it “welcomed the opportunity to put forward our objections to the inquiry”.
The venue for the public inquiry is yet to be confirmed.
A spokesperson for Whistl said: “A public inquiry has been listed for November 10 and 11 by the Traffic Commissioner for Whistl’s operation at PLP Astley, Wigan.
“Whistl will be taking a full part in the hearing and has been in frequent contact with the traffic commissioner’s office.
“We have also been closely working with local residents since moving our North West depot to PLP Astley, Wigan.”