Concern after drug paraphernalia found at former Wigan pub

The grade-II listed boozer on Gidlow Lane shut its doors several years ago and is currently standing empty after plans to develop the building and bowling green stalled.

One resident in the area said the beautiful old building had unfortunately become something of an “eyesore” with people gaining access to the site and then drinking and taking illegal substances there.

A ward councillor said she was well aware of local concerns about the ex-pub and urged the owner of the building to take steps to tidy up.

The resident said: “Doors have been broken down and old needles can be seen spread out.

“Young people have been drinking there and I am concerned they will stand on the needles.

“Teenagers will be teenagers and explore drink and never cause an issue, but with the needles things have taken a darker turn. With drugs involved things are getting out of hand.

“It is now very easy to get on to the bowling green, and people do.”

Coun Phyll Cullen, who represents Wigan West ward in the council chamber, said a town hall officer had been out to the site and both the local authority and Greater Manchester Police were aware of what was going on at the closed-down pub.

Coun Cullen said: “It’s not council land so the owner is responsible for tidying it up and making sure the perimeter is secure.

“We need the owner to sort this out. It needs to be tidied up at least.”

Wigan Council said a team has been sent to clear up any drug-related items.