Rochdale countryside intrusion rate stands at near 99%

Reporter: Katie Hill
Date online: 12/09/2007

At current rates of loss, it is feared that countryside free from major disturbance could disappear in most regions of England before the end of the century.

Rochdale has seen an overall increase in noise and visual intrusion in its countryside from 79.56% in the 1960’s to 98.82% in 2007.

Startling new figures by countryside campaigners Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) show that currently 50% of England is disturbed by the sight and sound of nearby roads, urban areas and other major infrastructure.

Rochdale’s is one of the sharpest increases in intrusion in the North West, although many of the more urban areas such as Manchester, Liverpool and Bolton have no undisturbed areas left whatsoever.

The figures are based on comparisons of maps from the early 1960s and 1990s with new maps and data for 2007. They show the extent of urban intrusion, including major infrastructure such as motorways, power stations, and airports.

CPRE Chief Executive Shaun Spiers commented: "Countryside which is undisturbed by noise and development is vital for our quality of life and well-being. These maps show what the future may hold if we don’t sufficiently value our wonderful rural landscapes. As the shadow of intrusion stretches further and wider, the peace and quiet we need is harder to find."

Mr Spiers continued: "The countryside is one of our greatest national assets. I am sure that the Government wants to protect it – but these maps show the current pace of development is seriously eroding our countryside. The impact of development spreads way beyond its immediate footprint. More must be done to protect what is left from further fragmentation."