by Joe Jeffrey
Plans to turn asbestos site in West Yorkshire into caravan site face fierce opposition
Controversial plans for an old asbestos site to be turned into a certified caravan park in West Yorkshire, have caused concern amongst locals opposed to the idea.
According to reports, owners of the old Acre Mill asbestos site in Hebden Bridge, Calderdale, have applied to the Camping & Caravanning Club for it to become a certified site for up to five caravans and ten tents, with basic facilities for chemical waste and the disposal of waste.
Local Lib Dem councilor, Janet Battye, who is also opposed to the plans said: “I’m really surprised that there’s any possibility of this happening. Although it apparently doesn’t need planning permission, there may well be Environmental Health concerns about any use being made of this site other than for grazing.
“People are still suffering the effects of the asbestos works and it’s at least insensitive to make such a use of this site.”
Hundreds of people in Calderdale have reportedly died from asbestosis after being exposed to the deadly dust, mainly contracted after working at the mill, which was subsequently sealed off and demolished in 1979.
Battey continued: “I’m writing to the Camping and Caravanning Club urging them not to go ahead with this. I hope that Calderdale Council and the Parish Council share these views and will take similar action.”
