Tony Porter Ponders : Bananas as in housing, golden and bobbing
I talk bananas this week: three types, bananas policy a returning one and loads floating around.
Earlier this year I mentioned on a Wigan Watch that the new flats/apartments near Britannia Bridge next to the canal were for young adults, aged up to 25, that are being moved from Coops in the town centre.
The remainder, over 25-year-olds living there received letters last week telling them, unexpectedly, that they will be moved from the building before the end of March next year and the building will be put up for sale thereafter.
The building itself was built as a clothing factory in 1871 for Timothy Coop and James Marsden and had two extensions added in 1888 and 1892.
It is now a Grade II listed building and those I spoke to seem to think the repair and maintenance costs are too high for the housing association to afford.
The tenants have been offered a multi-thousand-pound financial package to help with the relocation costs, but one cannot help but feel that those in need are again being treated badly.
No doubt a big organisation will snap up the mill and convert it into hundreds of apartments and make a killing.
Should it not be a priority of local and national government to ensure that those who have fallen on hard times are treated sympathetically and with respect rather than being given short notice to vacate their sanctuary?
I must add that this has nothing to do directly with any governmental body, but they could offer a helping hand to the housing association to, instead of closing the unit down, use the space freed by the younger generation to help others that are in dire need.
Meanwhile, on a lighter note, Wigan's tribute to Sir David Beckham has returned after a hiatus, and I for one was pleased to see him back but, not wanting to be a party pooper or Grinch, feel that his placement, on a busy corner, is a tad concerning.
With the possibility of drivers getting distracted and either mounting the kerb or drifting into oncoming traffic on a blind corner, not to mention houses directly opposite, I imagine not all residents are amused.
His previous location was far better: on a long strait with no houses having a direct view, though some might say it's nearer a school, but I think most secondary kids would find it amusing.
I mean most primary children have more knowledge on the body than me, even now.
Like I said, it’s great to have the golden one back, but maybe not in this location.
Talking of bananas, a shipping container ship lost many containers in stormy weather filled with bananas and other fruit, with locals being warned not to pick any up from beaches.
Because of health concerns?
Nope, the public are advised to avoid the area as all wreck material found in the UK has to be reported to HM Coastguard’s Receiver of Wreck.
Even bananas? It also seems that those who fail to declare items within 28 days are breaking the law and may have further action taken against them.
Imagine in court - no jury obviously - getting set down for three years and your cell mate asking what your in for and you reply, "picking up some bananas off a beach."
If it was a BMW bike, like some years ago, I would understand more.