New Owners for Historic Industrial Site in Rochdale

25 November 2021

A site that was once home to the world’s largest asbestos manufacturer is set to finally be remediated following its purchase by Castleford-based ESG Trading Ltd. 

The 45-hectare former Turner Brothers Asbestos site has a long history of industrial use, including asbestos manufacture dating back to the 19th century.  Its successful remediation provides an opportunity for the site to contribute to Rochdale’s future prosperity, set within an improved natural setting at the foot of the Spodden Valley. 

ESG Trading Limited is a specialist remediation company, with in-house experts who are experienced at decontaminating and remediating complex brownfield sites. 

Speaking after the purchase of the site, Martin Greenwood, Chairman, said:  

“The former Turner Brothers Asbestos site provides a potential opportunity to contribute to the future growth of Rochdale.  But this can only be realised by a careful, considered and safe strategy to decontaminate, demolish and remediate the land. 

“I am very aware of the sensitivities that have surrounded previous attempts to regenerate the site and my team are in ongoing discussions with Rochdale Council, the Environment Agency and the Health & Safety Executive, to develop a remediation strategy that exceeds statutory requirements. 

“Over the coming weeks survey work will begin and residents may notice increased activity across the site.  This vital survey work will inform the remediation strategy and has been agreed with regulators.  No remediation work will begin without all relevant approvals being in place. 

“My team are also aware of the level of interest from the local community about the site.  Whilst we do not have all of the answers at the moment, we look forward to introducing ourselves to local residents over the coming weeks and will take an open and transparent approach to information sharing.”