Bolton council refutes misleading video claims about student accommodation

Council clarifies misinformation around Orlando Village clip

Author: Stan TomkinsonPublished 3rd May 2026

Bolton council has addressed a video circulating online that falsely claims individuals shown near Orlando Village student accommodation are asylum seekers.

The clip, widely shared earlier this week, depicts a group with suitcases near Thynne Street, Great Lever, alongside captions referencing "illegals" and "shipping them in."

Council response

Bolton Council clarified that the video portrays international students departing Orlando Village after completing their studies at the University of Greater Manchester.

A council spokesperson stated: “We are aware of a video circulating online with false and misleading information about students based at Orlando Village in Bolton. The video shows a group of students who were leaving Orlando Village, who have been studying here for the past 12 months.”

Addressing misinformation

The council emphasized its commitment to working with Orlando Village and the university to support staff and students affected by the false claims.

Orlando Village, with 383 rooms, is the only accommodation provider approved and recommended by the University of Greater Manchester.

The council seeks to counter online misinformation and protect the community from misleading narratives.

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