Neighbours thought 60ft warehouses towering over their homes were bad. The noise was worse

Residents living on the Henfold Estate in Tyldesley, Greater Manchester, have expressed growing frustration over the recent completion of the Astley Business Park, a development consisting of four large warehouses that now loom over their homes. Construction of the site, which includes structures up to 60 feet in height, was finalized in January 2026. Distribution firm Whistl became the first tenant to occupy one of the warehouses, establishing operations last month. The new facilities are situated just beyond the boundaries of the residential area, directly adjacent to some homes, including that of Stephen Retford, a retired police officer who has resided on the estate for four decades. Retford, 70, described the situation as increasingly unbearable. He noted that the noise generated by Whistl's operations, particularly from heavy goods vehicles, has become a persistent nuisance, affecting his ability to sleep. The summer heat has exacerbated the issue, with Retford comparing the experience to sleeping on a motorway service station. His home is located directly opposite the firm’s service yard, placing him in the direct path of the disturbances. Retford criticized Wigan Council for approving both the construction of the warehouses and the subsequent license allowing 24/7 operations. He argued that the council’s decision has worsened the situation, stating that the council effectively gave permission for the warehouses to operate around the clock after initially building them on residential land. The local community has rallied behind Retford and other affected residents, forming the Astley Warehouse Action group. This grassroots organization brings together individuals from several nearby housing estates, all impacted by the development. The group has been actively opposing the project since its inception, advocating for the cessation of overnight operations. They recently held meetings with representatives from Whistl and Wigan Council, during which the distribution firm proposed measures aimed at addressing the concerns raised by residents. The local authority has indicated that it will evaluate the effectiveness of these proposals and consider further actions if necessary. John Peters, another long-time resident of the estate, echoed similar sentiments. Having lived on the property for over three decades, Peters emphasized that the current conditions surpass even the challenges faced during the construction phase. He highlighted the unexpected intensity of the operational noise, particularly during late hours, and stressed how it affects the quality of life for those residing nearby. While Peters acknowledges the loss of scenic views from his home, he remains committed to the fight against the ongoing issues. He pointed out that additional warehouses are set to be occupied by other companies, ensuring that the problem will persist unless addressed. The Astley Warehouse Action group continues to push for solutions, maintaining pressure on both the company and the local government. Their efforts reflect a broader concern over industrial developments encroaching upon residential areas, raising questions about the balance between economic growth and community well-being. As the situation unfolds, the residents remain hopeful that meaningful changes will be implemented to mitigate the adverse effects of the warehouses on their daily lives.