Wigan councillor provides update on derelict hotel in "dangerous condition"
The owner of a hazardous former Wigan borough hotel has been ordered to carry out improvements.
Coun Stuart Gerrard has taken to Facebook to provide an update on what used to be the Railway Hotel located on Bag Lane in Atherton.
The old and now-vacant building has been frequently reported for issues with vandalism and disrepair, and there has been a requirement to tighten security since 2024.
It serves as a lasting but sad reminder of the area's railway history from the 1960s.
On social media, Atherton representative Coun Gerrard said: "Over the last few years we have been asking the Council to contact the owner of the Railway Hotel over its condition and security especially with youths continuing to gain access.
"Following further reports from ourselves and nearby residents about the condition of the Railway Hotel, the Council carried out a new inspection on February 12 2026.
"This found parts of the building had deteriorated since the last inspection and were in an immediately dangerous condition."
As a result, the hotel posed a risk to the public and emergency powers were used to remove hazards to make the site of the hotel safe by the council.
Councillor Stuart Gerrard said: "The owner has now been formally required to obtain professional advice and carry out permanent repairs to ensure the building is made safe long-term.
"If this does not happen within a reasonable timeframe, the Council can apply to the Magistrates’ Court to require works to be done or carry them out in default and recover the costs.
"Once safety issues are fully resolved, the Council will also consider further action regarding the building’s external condition if it continues to impact local amenity.
"Public safety remains the priority, and I will continue to keep residents updated as this progresses."