Seven homes identified as “high risk” due to PFAS contaminated soil in Thornton-Cleveleys

Soil sample results from 71 properties in the area showed concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which is part of the PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) family.

The properties tested are located near the site of a former Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI) plant, with operations having ceased in 1992. Chemical company AGC Chemicals has since taken over some of the site, known as the Hillhouse Enterprise Zone.

The investigations are being carried by Wyre Council in conjunction with the Environment Agency, with the council telling the BBC that seven "high risk" properties will now require further investigation.

In a statement shared with the media, council said that PFOA had been detected in a “majority of properties tested”, and that while most required no further action a small number “may need further assessment to determine whether additional steps are necessary”.

Speaking to the BBC, the council reiterated advice stating: “If you grow fruit and vegetables in the ground or rear chickens or ducks, don't eat it.”

Law firm Leigh Day is currently investigating alleged PFAS contamination in Thornton-Cleveleys near the site of an AGC Chemicals factory in the village.

AGC Chemicals has acknowledged that PFOA has previously been used in manufacturing processes at the Hillhouse site since the 1950s, but was phased out by 2012.

The Leigh Day team investigating the issue are planning on holding a meeting in late May at Thornton-Cleveleys Football Club, where experts will be invited to help explain and contextualise the results of the council’s investigations.

Leigh Day partner Sarah Moore, who is leading the firm’s PFAS investigations, said:

“It is concerning to hear yet more reports of contamination being confirmed in soil samples taken from properties in Thornton-Cleveleys. PFOA is classified as a carcinogen by the World Health Organisation, so it is important that Wyre Council and the Environment Agency move quickly to ensure that residents’ concerns are addressed.

“We are continuing to investigate the issue of PFAS contamination in Thornton-Cleveleys, and to that end are planning a town hall meeting in May for residents to attend. This will offer an opportunity for people to share their concerns, and access independent expert advice to interpret any test results provided and any further environmental or personal health implications.”