Todmorden News

Helping Todmorden Become Self-Sufficient

CMBC Councillors are helping Todmorden High School become more self-sufficient. Last night members of the Council’s Cabinet committee agreed to a number of steps which will help staff and students develop a fish farm and associated growing plots on land behind the school.

The Council will now dedicate the plot of land where the fish farm will sit to the Big Lottery. This will act as security for the funding they receive.

Councillor Craig Whittaker, portfolio holder for Children and Young People’s Services, said he was delighted the Council had been able to help the school progress with its proposals.

“This is a really exciting project which will ultimately lead to the school being able to use the fish and vegetables they have cultivated in home economic lessons and the school canteen. Any surplus stock can then be sold on to the community.

“It will also allow the school to offer further education opportunities as students aged between 14 and 19 will be able to study for a BTEC diploma in Environment and Land Based Studies.”

The whole process is called an Aquaponic system. Spring water will feed the tanks which will hold a variety of fish. The waste produced by the fish will then be used to feed the vegetables.

“Todmorden has led the way in creating a sustainable community and their efforts have already made national headlines. The school has been at the heart of the Incredible Edible project and this latest proposal demonstrates their commitment and passion for the scheme,” said Councillor Whittaker.

“This scheme will help people to shape their own future and ensure Calderdale is a clean, safe and thriving area for residents to enjoy.”