Spodden Valley decision imminent

Aerial view of the former asbestos factory in Spodden Valley

Spodden Valley campaigners will find out next week whether a building application for the controversial site has been rejected.

A deadline set by Rochdale Council for MMC Developments Ltd to provide evidence of resources to develop the former site of an asbestos factory has passed.

Nothing has been said about whether the terms of the request were met, but the Council has said an announcement will be made next week.

Save Spodden Valley campaigner Jason Addy said: “All parties involved have been incredibly patient.

“We are all looking for the best outcome for the people of Rochdale and for their safety. Safety has always been the primary issue with regards to Spodden Valley.

“All that we would ask for is that all the facts are known and that any decisions made are fully accountable.

“We await with great interest any decisions that may be made in the weeks and months ahead.”

A controversial application to build more than 600 homes on the former site of Turner Brother Asbestos was made in December 2004.

Campaigners have long argued against building on the site because of health fears.

A report with the planning application in 2004 stated: “Of particular note is the absence of any asbestos contamination.”

The 72 acre site was sold by the Administrator of Federal Mogul for £6,250,000 in April 2004 and is owned by MMC and Hawksford Jersey Ltd.