Heywood HMO protest moved from Memorial Gardens to Civic Centre after backlash

Friday, 10 July 2026 17:35

By David Murphy

Jamie Thomason, the leader of the vigilante group Heywood HMO protestors

Another protest against plans for a house in multiple occupation next to a primary school in Heywood has been moved from the town’s Memorial Gardens to the Civic Centre following concerns raised by local residents, Rochdale Council and the Heywood Veterans’ Association.

The demonstration, organised by the vigilante group Heywood HMO Protesters, is due to take place at 2pm on Saturday. The group’s leader has multiple criminal convictions as previously reported.

Organisers had originally planned to gather at Heywood Memorial Gardens but announced a change of venue after reading feedback from local people.

In a post on social media, the group said it had decided to relocate the protest to Heywood Civic Centre out of respect for community concerns.

The statement said, “After reading all of the comments and feelings of the people of Heywood, out of respect, I have decided to move the protest to the civic centre.

“I will not hurt the feelings of those I love, respect and care about. I hope to see you all there tomorrow at 2pm.”

The protest is being held in opposition to proposals for a house in multiple occupation beside Woodlands Primary School.

Before the venue was changed, Rochdale Council had urged organisers to reconsider using the Memorial Gardens, describing it as a place dedicated to remembering members of the armed forces, including those who lost their lives in service.

The council said it fully respected the right to peaceful protest but believed the gardens should remain a place for reflection and remembrance rather than demonstrations.

A council spokesperson said the request was not aimed at any particular group or campaign and reflected the authority’s approach in similar situations. The statement added that the Heywood Veterans’ Association shared the view that the Memorial Gardens should only be used for their intended purpose.

The protest will now take place at Heywood Civic Centre from 2pm.