Pioneering food initiative approved by town council

Town councillors have given their support to the application for a new fish and aquaponics unit, which could cost £750,000, at Todmorden High School.

The campaigning food group, Incredible Edible Ltd, has applied for planning permission for the unit, with an associated classroom, on land behind the Ewood Lane high school.

The facility, which will be built using eco-friendly construction techniques, will be used for educational purposes as well as providing an outlet to sell fish and vegetables through the Incredible Edible project.

Ian Cooper, a leading member of Calderdale Council, said: “I am delighted that these plans are edging closer to becoming a reality. It is an exciting development for Todmorden through the Incredible Edible initiative which I have supported from its inception.

“The opportunities that present themselves as a consequence are huge and provide an ideal outlet for our use. I just think it is a fantastic opportunity and something we can all be tremendously proud of.”

Some councillors expressed concerns about the size of the building and its proximity to neighbouring houses. But Councillor Abid Hussain maintained the aquaponics unit would be a benefit to the students, and it will be used to provide accredited training opportunities.

The idea is for spring water to feed tanks holding a variety of fish.

Their waste will then be used to feed vegetables being grown on the site as well as wild flowers on the building’s roof.

The fish, fruit and vegetables will be used by the school canteen and by pupils in home economic lessons. Any surplus will be sold to the local community.

Incredible Edible, which now enjoys a worldwide profile, has secured £500,000 of Big Lottery funding for a food hub in Todmorden.

Staff from Incredible Edible will manage the project, which is supported by Calder Valley MP Craig Whittaker, Calderdale Council and NHS Calderdale.

The plans are subject to approval by Calderdale Council.

The type of fish to be stocked will be confirmed at a later date.