CONTROVERSIAL chemical company Nipa Laboratories will face prosecution over an acid gas leak at their factory in May.

The Environment Agency and the Health and Safety Executive have been investigating the events which led to the leak of steam and acid gas in May, when residents complained of sore throats and stinging eyes.

A spokeswoman for the Environment Agency confirmed that a prosecution will be brought against the firm following the leak. Investigations into a second leak at the plant in November by the agency and the HSE are continuing.

The spokeswoman said: "There will be a prosecution relating to the leak in May, although no dates for the hearing have yet been fixed. Because it will be a joint prosecution by the HSE and the Environment Agency, we need to look at exactly what charges will be brought.

The company will face charges under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and Health and Safety At Work Act 1974. The Envronment Agency say the firm has been informed of the latest development.

Oswaldtwistle councillor Peter Britcliffe told a full meeting of Hyndburn Council that the leak in November was less serious than the first incident. He said: "I have been assured by Nipa that the leak was a very minor incident compared to what happened in May."

Coun Malcom Peplow called on the council to monitor air quality at the site, but Coun Britcliffe said that was already being done.

A watchdog panel including councillors, residents, and representatives from the company and the Environment Agency is meeting tonight at Oswaldtwistle Town Hall.

The Nipa Laboratories Liaison Group meeting begins at 6pm. The body was set up by Hyndburn Council after the leak in May.

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