A MAJOR pollution scare forced more than 200 children to remain indoors when a cloud of lime dust settled over their playground.

Rosemary Rushton, headteacher at High Lawn Primary School, Sharples, was forced to take prompt action when the green cloud suddenly appeared.

Mrs Rushton said: "We were extremely worried about the effect that this cloud could have on the children.

"We simply refused to let the children go outside and we are constantly watching to take similar action in the future."

Bolton Environmental Health Officers have been called in to investigate the claims that residents are at risk from lime dust being scattered on the former Sweetloves Reservoir to dry-out the site where 217 private houses will be buil..

Mr Don Whittaker, of Wilkinson Road, said: "This is absolutely disgusting. This dust is being dumped in vast quantities by big tankers and even the contractors say they have never come across such large amounts. We have been told that they are dumping 100 tons a day. "There is a permanent fog over the reservoir. It is making us very frightened to venture outdoors and we are very worried about the health risks because we believe it can cause serious respiratory problems."

Mr Stephen Maslivec, principal environmental health officer in charge of pollution, said: "Because of the nature of the problem, we have not got enough evidence together as yet. We have responded to complaints and we are carrying out daily visits to monitor pollution levels.

"The lime is similar to what is used to mark out football pitches and if touched can cause burns and irritation as well as problems with the throat, eyes and lungs. If we find enough evidence we will serve an abatement notice. If the contractors fail to comply they will be fined £20,000."

Developers have said the work is being carried out "in accordance with planning permission."

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