National TV coverage for Ding Quarry fight

Filming 'Country File' in the countryside near to Ding Quarry.

Countryfile on Sunday (15 March) featured the struggle to stop Ding quarry reopening.

The programme looked at the issue of dormant quarries nationally, using Ding quarry as an example of the threat posed by these quarries to local communities.

Dave Thomas, Chairman of the Ding Quarry Action Group, commented: “We’re fighting the plans for Ding quarry, and that means we’re also fighting to preserve the moorland and the heritage of Rochdale.

"The Cotton Famine road, the proposed route up to the quarry, is a vital part of that heritage and will risk destruction if the quarry reopens. Remember, this road was designed for horses, carts and foot traffic and it is already in desperate need of protection.

"D.P. Williams has asked for yet another extension to complete the application process, prolonging the agony of all the people of north Rochdale who will be affected if quarrying starts again at Ding. The programme included footage of the last campaign when the road was blockaded by protesters and no-one should be in any doubt about the strength of feeling of local people.”

Dr Andy Tickle, national minerals expert at the Campaign to Protect Rural England, who is working with the action group, said: “Ding is the worst example in the country of how a dormant quarry can cast a huge shadow over fantastic countryside and the people who live close to it."

Dave Thomas continued: “We will carry on monitoring the developer’s application and the Action Group is ready to take whatever action is necessary to resist this threat. In the meantime, we’re pleased to have become part of a wider heritage group, concerned with preserving and valuing Rochdale’s rich history. We should be proud to welcome people to our wonderful Pennine moorlands. Perhaps we don’t fully appreciate their value as a wildlife habitat and source of enjoyment.

"I believe that, in a time of economic uncertainty, the protection of the moorland, the Mary Towneley Loop and the Cotton Famine Road can create and protect jobs that are being attracted to the area from environmentally sensitive recreation and local tourism.

"For example, with the support of the people and politicians of Rochdale, we have a once in a lifetime opportunity to create a ‘green corridor’ for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, from Rochdale Town centre, through the Spodden Valley and up to the Pennine Moorlands. With other, once neglected river corridors, we have the chance to create a network of safe routes for everyone to enjoy responsibly.”

The BBC has expressed an interest in a further programme, looking at the moor and the history of the Cotton Famine Road.