Widnes Industrial Estate Firms Face Closure Over Housing Development
Companies operating on the Golden Triangle Industrial Estate in Halebank, Widnes, are expressing outrage after receiving notices to vacate the site within weeks to accommodate a new housing development. Halton Borough Council issued solicitor's letters on behalf of the council, setting a deadline of the end of March for businesses to pack up and leave.
Businesses Left in Limbo with No Support
Many of the approximately 30 to 40 firms on the estate, which range from loft insulation services to ice cream van operations, have been established since the early 1980s. They collectively employ around 200 people and now face an uncertain future due to the sudden relocation demand. Business owners report receiving no assistance or guidance from the council in finding new premises, leading to fears of permanent closure.
Martin Freeman, 55, and his wife Shelley, who have owned Shelley's Cafe for 12 years, highlighted the personal toll. "We haven't been offered any help or advice, just told to leave," said Mr. Freeman, who recently visited A&E with a high heart rate, potentially linked to stress from the situation. The cafe, once a failing business, was revitalized through their efforts and has become a community hub.
Long-Term Employees and Livelihoods at Risk
Lorna McGowan, an employee at MOT test centre RGN Ltd for 20 years, voiced concerns about job security. "I've got four years to retirement, where am I going to get another job now?" she said. Her boss, Rowland, has been at the site for over four decades, underscoring the deep roots of these businesses in the local economy.
Pete Maddison, who runs PM Groundworks and has been based on the estate for 20 years, emphasized the broader impact. "We just want them to understand that you can't just turf people out when it's their livelihood," he added, reflecting the frustration among business owners.
Council Response and Housing Plans
A spokeswoman for Halton Borough Council stated that the site was designated for housing in the borough's local plan four years ago. Phase one of the development, which began last year, is set to deliver 63 affordable and social houses by the end of the year. The council acquired the Golden Triangle to support the next phase, involving an outline application for 240 properties submitted with developer Cityheart late last year.
"The original notices and timescales were issued based on external legal advice; however we understand the uncertainty this process can cause," the spokeswoman said. She added that the council intends to work flexibly with businesses to minimize disruption and agree on a relocation timeframe.
Political Intervention and Community Concerns
Widnes and Halewood MP Derek Twigg has been contacted by affected businesses and has urged the council to review the situation urgently. In a statement, he said, "If businesses are expected to relocate, clearly, they need to be afforded time to do this and so I hope that the council will work proactively with all those affected." He pledged to continue pressing the local authority to prioritize these businesses in decision-making.
The development is part of the wider Foundry Lane masterplan unveiled in 2022, with phase one involving 63 homes in partnership with social housing company Plus Dane. As the deadline approaches, business owners remain anxious about their futures, calling for more support and clarity from the council to prevent economic fallout in the community.
