A residential neighbourhood should be a safe haven for families and children, a place where trust is built over time and where community bonds are strengthened with every shared wave and friendly greeting. At 459 Gidlow Lane in Beech Hill, Wigan, however, our sense of security and community is suddenly at risk.

Without prior consultation or notification to the residents, the property at 459 Gidlow Lane is being turned into a House of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) intended to house 5 individuals. Local schools and families populate this area, and introducing an HMO without informing the community disregards our right to be aware of who is moving into our neighbourhood.

Understanding who will reside there, what support they may need, and whether they could potentially pose a risk of crime or disruption is critical for maintaining the trust and safety of our community. We demand transparency regarding the individuals who will live in this HMO. Moreover, a proper risk assessment should be conducted to ensure they do not pose any danger, especially to the children attending nearby schools.

We urge the local council to halt any development work on this HMO project until a full consultation with the residents has been undertaken. It's essential that local inhabitants are included in the planning process and are given a platform to voice their concerns and suggestions regarding the potential impact on the community.

Signing this petition calls on our decision-makers to recognise the significance of community consultation and to prioritise the security and cohesion of Beech Hill, Wigan. Let's stand together to protect our neighbourhood's future. Sign the petition to make your voice heard.