Council investigates industrial legacy as part of environmental regeneration project at Brookside Nature Reserve
Council investigates industrial legacy as part of environmental regeneration project at Brookside Nature Reserve
Hyndburn Borough Council is currently investigating the impacts of industrial legacy at Brookside Nature Reserve in Oswaldtwistle, as part of ongoing environmental improvement works at the site.
Preliminary specialist assessments have been carried out to support the Council’s wider plans to enhance and protect Brookside as a high-quality public natural space. These assessments are an important part of ensuring the site is safe, sustainable, and fit for future use.
Image: Brookside Nature Reserve
Initial sampling has identified the presence of potential contaminants in some areas of the site. These may be linked to historic land use and include substances such as petroleum-based oils, solvents, phenols and pesticides. At this stage, further work is required to understand the nature, extent and any potential risk associated with these findings.
Preliminary investigations found no evidence of site-wide contamination, with most locations showing no visible signs or odours and vegetation limiting exposure in many areas; evidence of contamination has been identified only in soils within parts of the central and southern areas and in water at one of the central mill lodges although it is recognised that the sampling and testing completed to date has been limited and this is to be addressed in further site assessments.
Environmental Health officers, supported by specialist consultants RSK Environment Limited trading as RSK Geosciences, are now carrying out more detailed investigations.
The site remains open for walking and informal recreation. However, as a precaution, access to some central areas has been restricted while further testing takes place. Visitors are asked to follow on-site signage, avoid restricted areas, and keep dogs out of the water bodies.
Councillor Munsif Dad, Leader of the Council said:
“We understand that news of potential contamination may cause concern, but I want to reassure residents that the Council is already taking proactive steps to investigate and manage the situation. These checks are part of our wider commitment to improving Brookside and ensuring it remains a valued green space for the community.
“We will continue to provide clear, factual updates so residents understand what is happening and why. Public safety remains our top priority.”
The Council acquired the land in 2022 specifically to safeguard it as public green space and to invest in environmental improvements for the benefit of residents and future generations. This investigation forms part of that ongoing commitment.
The Council is working closely with environmental health specialists and partner organisations to ensure the site is appropriately assessed and managed. Volunteer and community activities continue to take place where appropriate, with safety measures and risk management arrangements in place.
Further updates will be shared as more information becomes available.
For more information, visit: https://www.hyndburnbc.gov.uk/brookside/2
For enquiries: brookside@hyndburnbc.gov.uk