A Salford MP has welcomed moves to remove ‘unsafe’ banners protesting against shared housing plans in Irlam.
Michael Wheeler, MP of Eccles and Worsley has spoken out in response to the ‘Say No to Migrant HMO’s’ banners in Cadishead and Lower Irlam.
He says he supports the council’s decision to remove the roadside banners, following concerns raised by local residents and the local Labour councillor of Cadishead and Irlam, Hannah Robinson-Smith.
Wheeler said in his recent statement: “There is a real conversation to be had about HMOs, housing and the issues affecting our local communities. Residents should be able to ask questions, raise concerns and expect clear answers.
“But that conversation needs to be based on facts. Under different names, shared accommodation has been part of our local housing for a long time. The Council has been clear that HMOs are home to people from many different backgrounds, and that planning applications are considered on their individual merits through the proper planning process. Residents will continue to be notified about planning applications in their area.”
The most recent debate regarding shared housing in Irlam and Cadishead comes from a recent online petition against the matter which has been shared across social media.
Wheeler reported that he had some serious concerns about public safety, due to the banners being attached to road signs unsafely.
“While there are reports that council officers attempting to remove them were intimidated and unable to proceed. Whatever your views on HMOs or the issues being raised, intimidating or preventing council workers from carrying out their jobs is not acceptable.
“I believe strongly that we can disagree, ask difficult questions and hold public bodies to account without allowing our communities to be divided against one another.”
He ended the statement with saying he will continue to support local Labour councillors, listen to residents across Worsley and Eccles and stand up for the communities.
He also added that he will continue to challenge hate, misinformation and attempts to create division wherever they appear, before ending the statement with, “we are better than this. We are better than allowing division to define our communities.”
