The former Turner Brothers Asbestos factory in Rochdale, dubbed 'Rochdale's Chernobyl', is facing a surge in trespassing as summer holidays approach. Site owners Spodden Park Ltd reported that security was alerted to trespassers more than 100 times in October 2025, with monthly breaches estimated between 30 and 60. Intrusions increased by 25% during school holidays, and locals have spotted children playing in the River Spodden, which flows through the factory site.
Health Risks from Asbestos
Asbestos fibres in the decaying buildings still pose a serious health threat. According to Spodden Park Ltd, breathing in asbestos fibres can lead to asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer. Fibres can also stick to clothing, endangering family members. The site owners produced a factsheet highlighting these dangers.
Security Measures and Legal Action
Spodden Park Ltd said: “With the summer holidays approaching, we are anticipating an increase in trespassing on the site. A significant proportion of these will be local teenagers. If you have or work with children, we would appreciate it if you could remind them of the dangers of the site.” The company has been repairing fence breaches and using new tactics to prevent intrusions, but may take trespassers to court if issues persist.
Urban Explorers and Visible Breaches
'Urban explorers' film themselves entering the site and share videos on YouTube and social media, showcasing the rubble and collapsed interior. During a rare tour granted to the Manchester Evening News, visible breaches in fences and a smashed CCTV camera were observed. The site team has been plugging holes in fences to deter visitors.
Redevelopment Plans Uncertain
Plans for redevelopment have been stalled for years. In 2004, proposals for 650 homes, a daycare centre, and a business park were rejected in 2011. In 2021, planning permission was refused after MMC Estates failed to carry out a £500,000 contamination investigation. A fire in 2014 damaged part of the factory. Spodden Park Ltd has not disclosed its future plans.
