CONTAMINATION by asbestos, further traffic disruption and the lack of schools were the hot topics debated by Horwich residents, as they vented their views on the proposed development of the former Loco Works site.

More than 150 peope packed into a function room at the Horwich RMI to hear about the Rivington Chase scheme, which includes building 1,700 new homes.

Developers Horwich Vision said they believe the proposals could regenerate the area and bring in an extra £19 million to local business.

But at tonight's open meeting people voiced opposition that the council and planners were not listening to their concerns over the increased pressure of traffic and the potential risk to health, due to the 'unknown' level of asbestos in the former factory ground.