Villagers Legal Battle to Block " Super Prison"

Villagers' Legal Battle to Block 'Super-Prison' in Ulnes Walton

In the quiet village of Ulnes Walton, Lancashire, a fierce battle is unfolding. The local community is rallying against the government's decision to build a massive 1,700-capacity 'super-prison' on cherished greenbelt land. This proposed prison, which would be the third in the area, has sparked significant controversy and opposition from residents who fear the impact on their village's character and infrastructure.

The Controversial Decision

The decision to approve the prison was made by Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government. Despite strong objections from Chorley Council and local residents, Rayner overruled these concerns, citing 'very special circumstances' that justified the approval. The villagers, however, are not convinced. They argue that the harms, including the loss of greenbelt land and the potential for increased crime and traffic, far outweigh any benefits.

Local Opposition

The Ulnes Walton Action Group (UWAG) has been at the forefront of the opposition. They have launched a legal bid to challenge Rayner's decision, seeking leave to appeal against the approval. The group is concerned that the new prison will exacerbate existing problems, such as understaffing and drug smuggling, which are already issues at the two existing prisons in the area.

Community Concerns

Residents have voiced their worries about the impact on their daily lives. Andrea Hallows, a local caterer, questioned the logic of building another prison when the current ones are struggling with staffing and control issues. Pat, a retired NHS worker, expressed concerns about the village becoming busier and the potential effect on house prices1. Trevor, a retired head chef, highlighted the increased police and emergency services activity on weekends, which he believes will only worsen with the new prison.

The Legal Battle Ahead

The legal process is now in motion. The Secretary of State has 21 days to respond to UWAG's appeal, after which the group will have two weeks to submit their rebuttal. The case will then go before a judge who will decide if it should be heard in the High Court1. This legal battle represents a critical moment for the villagers of Ulnes Walton, who are determined to protect their community from what they see as an unnecessary and harmful development.

Conclusion

The fight against the 'super-prison' in Ulnes Walton is a testament to the power of community action. As the villagers continue their legal battle, they stand united in their commitment to preserving the character and tranquillity of their village. Whether they will succeed in blocking the prison remains to be seen, but their determination and resilience are clear.