A Golborne resident has been left frustrated after a caravan appeared in his garden two years ago and has remained ever since, causing a nuisance and attracting suspicious activity. Colin Taylor, 58, returned from a summer holiday in September 2024 to find the caravan placed on land next to his garage by a stranger who claimed to be homeless and needed a place to stay for a 'couple of weeks'.
The weeks turned into months, and the caravan has now been on the property for over two years. Taylor, a retired prison officer, says the area has become a blight, with waste accumulating and random people visiting in the early hours. He fears for his safety and that of his grandchildren, who can no longer play outside. 'I'm frightened to go in my garage because I don't know who's in and out,' he said.
Taylor has repeatedly reported the issue to Greater Manchester Police and Wigan Council. The council initially said removal was not possible while people were living in the caravan. Two men have resided there at different times, but it is now empty. However, the council now states that removal costs must be billed to the landowner, 81-year-old Beryl Crellin, who owns the private plot. Crellin has refused to pay, arguing she should not be charged for a caravan that is not hers.
Helen Dennis, assistant director at Wigan Council, acknowledged the situation and its impact on residents, stating that efforts are ongoing to achieve a resolution. She encouraged anyone with information about potential criminal activity to report it to the police.
