Anti-Migrant Protesters Target Former Home of Coronation Street Icon Julie Goodyear
Protesters gathered outside the former residence of Coronation Street actor Julie Goodyear in Heywood, Greater Manchester, following false rumours that the property would be used to house migrants. The £1.5 million mansion, sold by Goodyear in 2025, became the subject of demonstrations after claims emerged it was set to become a house in multiple occupation (HMO).
Council Confirms No Official Plans for Migrant Housing
Rochdale Council has confirmed that no official plans have been submitted to house immigrants at the site. Building work that began without planning permission has now ceased, with the council issuing a temporary stop notice on 20 February. The developer has complied with this notice, halting all unauthorised activities.
Application History and Invalidity
An application for a 15-bed HMO was initially submitted for the property. This was later amended to a 15-room bed and breakfast, and then further revised to 10 two-bedroom apartments. However, the council deemed the application invalid due to insufficient detail, emphasising that no formal approval was ever granted for any migrant housing scheme.
The protests highlight ongoing tensions in the community over immigration issues, fueled by misinformation. Local authorities urge residents to rely on verified information from official sources to avoid such incidents in the future.
