BOSSES at a chemical plant have publicly apologised to residents after admitting they were at fault for a major gas leak.

Nipa Laboratories have also revealed that a five-year improvement plan is under way at their plant at Nook Lane, Oswaldtwistle.

The firm pleaded guilty to two charges brought by the Health and Safety Executive and four charges brought by the Environment Agency.

Hyndburn Magistrates sent the case to Burnley Crown Court after deciding they did not have enough powers to sentence Nipa.

Andrew Dawson, defending, said the firm "wanted to take the opportunity to apologise once again to the people of Oswaldtwistle".

After the hearing, Mr Dawson added: "At the crown court, the company will be able to give a full account of the incident and their actions since then to improve the site and ensure there is no recurrence."

Site director Armas Best added: "Nipa is committed to continuous improvement in respect of health and safety and environmental issues. "A five-year improvement and action plan is under way with yet more investment planned at the site.

"The company is fully committed to Oswaldtwistle, staying there and being seen as a respected neighbour."

Nipa admitted six offences including allowing the release of hydrogen chloride and sulphur dioxide; allowing smells associated with a chemical process to escape outside the site; failing to provide adequate training to staff; and failing to keep equipment in good repair.

Another charge under the Environmental Protection Act, of failing to use the best technology available to prevent the release of the gas, was withdrawn.

Steven Zdolyny told the court that four tonnes of toxic emissions were released into the air, which made the incident the worst in Lancashire since new pollution laws were introduced in 1990.

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