Set out the positives and negatives of Bury being at the centre of cotton industry at this time - Worksheet - Year 3

The worksheet for Year 3 students asks them to consider the positive and negative impacts of Bury being at the centre of the cotton industry. On the positive side, Bury's prominence in the cotton industry likely led to economic growth, job creation, and the development of local infrastructure. The town would have attracted workers and their families, leading to a bustling community with a strong workforce. Additionally, being a central hub would have encouraged technological advancements and innovations within the cotton industry, potentially setting a precedent for future industrial development.

Conversely, the negative impacts of Bury's industrial centrality may include the environmental damage caused by factories, such as pollution and the depletion of natural resources. The working conditions in the cotton mills were often poor, with long hours and low pay for workers, including children. The rapid urbanisation could have led to overcrowded living conditions, resulting in health problems for the inhabitants. Reflecting on its impact today, the legacy of the cotton industry may still be felt in Bury, both in terms of its cultural heritage and any long-term environmental or socio-economic issues that have persisted.