Further soil testing planned in Thornton-Cleveleys contamination investigation
Experts have been looking at levels of a chemical called PFOA
More soil sampling is set to take place in Thornton-Cleveleys as part of an ongoing investigation into possible contamination near the Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone.
Experts have been looking at levels of a chemical called PFOA, used at the former ICI site between the 1950s and 2012, to see where it might have settled in the ground.
So far, most of the area within 500 metres of the site has been classed as low priority for further testing.
PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic Acid) is a chemical that was used for decades in manufacturing and potentially causes cancer.
"forever chemicals"
It’s part of a group known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t easily break down in the environment or the human body.
Some studies have linked long-term exposure to possible health effects, which is why its use has been phased out in the UK.
Wyre Council said one area to the southeast has shown higher levels of the chemical, meaning more detailed inspections will take place there in autumn 2025.
Another low-priority area to the northwest will also be checked again, just to confirm early findings.
Households whose gardens were tested earlier this year will receive letters about the results.
Officials say no areas have been officially labelled as contaminated, and current health advice is to keep using gardens and allotments as normal, just with good hygiene like washing hands after working with soil.
People growing food near the site are advised to wash and peel it before eating.
"cause for concern"
A spokesperson for Wyre Council said: “Analysis of the Phase 2 soil samples collected confirms that more detailed sampling is now required in an area to the southeast of the Hillhouse site.
“We know that this is likely to cause concern for many people.
"However, it’s important to note that no part of the area has been formally determined as contaminated, this simply indicates that further information is required.
"This further testing will take place this autumn to provide more detailed information to the investigation team.
“An investigation of this type is complex and does take time but please be assured that finding the answers on behalf of our community is an absolute priority for us.
"We are working with our partner agencies to make sure the process is carried out as quickly - but robustly - as possible.”
Community drop-in sessions are set to be held for members of the community to ask questions about the Phase 2 findings.