Lib Dems risk fragmenting NO to Ding Quarry campaign

Date published: 29 October 2007

Rochdale Liberal Democrats are in danger of putting party politics before the best interests of the town, and particularly the residents who would be worst affected by the re-opening of Ding Quarry. In a move that risks fragmenting the NO campaign, the Lib Dems have launched a 'No to Ding Quarry' web site, this despite knowing that a non party political web site is being developed by professional web developers at the request of local campaigners, including Lib Dem Councillor Elwyn Watkins.

Lib Dem MP Paul Rowen said the web site is reporting what he and Lib Dem Councillors are doing about the issue. He added: quot;The purpose of my web site is to promote and let people know what I am doing. We have added a petition because I wanted the site to be more interactive.

"Given that we have only leafleted the areas where we are Councillors/MP I do not see anything wrong with that. It is up to the Labour Party or Conservatives to let people know what they are doing."

Conservative Councillor, Ann Metcalfe said: quot;My thoughts are that the residents and people who worked so hard and fought so well last time with the campaign need to the ones who take the lead.

From the people I have spoken with they certainly do not wish for it to be taken over by any political party and I agree wholeheartedly and respect their opinion on this.

I think Elwyn is of the same thought. I feel we should be in the background helping and advising as much as possible wherever we can.

Everyone working together for the best outcome for our residents and our environment."

Labour Councillor Susan Emmott has offered her support for the campaign and has been thanked for doing so by Councillor Watkins, he said: quot;My thanks to Councillor Emmott. We now therefore have councillors from all parties opposing the opening of the quarry. I certainly believe that this is one area where the issue is far more important than party politics. We should all agree that opening the quarry would be a disaster. We need to put our differences in other areas aside in order to fight this."

You can support the NON party political 'Say No to Ding Quarry Campaign'" - by completing the online petition at:

www.dingquarry.co.uk/sign-the-petition.asp