“Is this a sick joke?” ask asbestos protestors

The children are eager to get their message across

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Controversial plans to build upon the worlds largest asbestos site finally came to a head in Rochdale, as dozens of protestors marched through the town centre with their letters of objection on Tuesday 8 February.

The protest began at 11.30am at the Broadwater Centre on Smith Street, before marching along Yorkshire Street, and finishing at Telegraph House where concerned parents and children handed over their letters to Planning Officer Alan Whale.

Dozens of children, mostly from Meanwood Primary School were dressed in overalls and masks, and had made their own protest signs in order to pass the message across about the danger of asbestos. Adult protestors handed out information leaflets to passers-by with the title “Is this a sick joke?”

Jason Addy from Save Spodden Valley said, “This protest is extremely important, people just don’t realise what they’re dealing with. Some of these children that are here today in masks and outfits may not see old age if nothing is done. Asbestos is invisible to the naked eye, but that does not mean that it should be ignored”.

The young protestors crowded into Telegraph House, and handed over their letters in person to planning officers. Alan Whale announced, “There’s no doubt that this is an important issue here, however there is still a long way to go before we reach success”.

The Save Spodden Valley Campaign has support from all political parties, along with significant numbers in the surrounding area of Rochdale. If you would like to have your say, visit the website www.spodden-valley.co.uk  or email savespoddenvalley@hotmail.com