Full Health Impact Assessment planned for Spodden Valley

Spodden Valley

A private meeting was held at Rochdale Town Hall last night, Tuesday 31 January.  Four members of the ‘Save Spodden Valley’ campaign were allowed to meet with key local and central Government agency representatives.

The controversial planning application remains firmly on hold. A planning decision is not expected this year.

The Health Protection Agency will work with other agencies on a Health Impact Assessment of the former asbestos factory site plans. This will involve extensive public consultation. The assessment is expected to take about six months. It is not known when this will commence.

Save Spodden valley campaign co-ordinator Jason Addy welcomed last night’s meeting:

"The Spodden Valley’s health concerns are now being taken very seriously. This was the first chance we have had to meet with government agencies such as the HPA, the local Primary Care Trust, the Environment Agency and the Health & Safety Executive.

"Asbestos from the Spodden Valley has killed countless people. We are grateful this issue is now receiving the attention it deserves. All we have ever asked for are safe and permanent solutions for this site. Last night’s meeting shows we are closer to achieving this".