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NEW ALLIES... Friends of the Earth executive director, Tony Juniper, with Jason Addy.
Turner’s campaign gains powerful ally
Bethan Dorsett12/ 8/2005
CAMPAIGNERS have gained a powerful ally in their fight against the controversial development plans for the old Turner's site.
Save Spodden Valley (SSV) spokesman Jason Addy won the support of Tony Juniper, executive director of Friends of the Earth, when he attended a three-day seminar.
Mr Addy was invited to speak about how new laws - such as the Freedom of Information Act - had given the group new tools in its campaign against a 600-home plan for the old asbestos plant.
He said: "Mr Juniper was keen to hear the latest news about the Turner's planning application.
"It was great to speak with the director of such an influential national environmental organisation with so many strong international links."
He said Friends of the Earth had been following the story through reports in the Observer and the national press.
Mr Juniper said: "SSV is fighting for people's rights to a clean, safe and sustainable environment - the basic rights that Friends of the Earth is campaigning for locally, nationally and internationally.
"We are glad that Jason was able to attend and will be keeping a keen interest in the Spodden Valley."
SSV, in particular its horse-riding members, is also rejoicing in the full re-opening of a popular footpath on the site.
They won their fight to re-open Woodlands Road in June, after Countryside Properties and MMC Developments used an emergency order to block the path.
Horse riders had been unable to use it until this month, when large stone blocks placed at both entrances were removed.
"Woodlands Road is a recognised bridleway that links north west Rochdale to Healey Dell and the Pennines," Mr Addy said.
"The move by the developers to deny walkers, cyclists and horse riders access to the valley has galvanised a number of groups to support the campaign.
"Thanks must go out to the rambling and horse riding groups who have vigorously lobbied to get Woodlands Road fully opened."
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