The following comment was sent to Heptonstall village website by Brian Hemsworth, Trustee of New Hope, the organisation connected with Slack Chapel.

“We were asked by people at the meeting on the 9th of April to give an update of what our intensions were after we met as a committee. below is our response.

“A meeting had been arranged at Colton Primary School [sic] to appraise residents of New Hope’s vision to restore the building for use as a ” Recovery Centre” for those recovering from various addictions.

“The meeting was attended by around 100 people but sadly did not afford those representing New Hope the courtesy of being allowed to present the proposed use,due to constant disruptions.
We were asked at the end of the meeting to let those who attended, know of our future intentions.

“At our New Hope committee meeting on Friday 11th April it was decided that we would continue with the proposal.
It is therefore intended to submit a planning application in due course.

“This process will ensure that local residents can submit their views on the application to the planning authority.”

Brian Hemsworth. New Hope Trustee.