Carcinogen found in soil of former chemical plant

A potentially cancer-causing substance has been found on the former site of a chemical factory in Lancashire.

Wyre Council earlier this year launched an investigation Then to AGC Chemicals (formerly ICI) facility in Thornton-Cleveleys concerns have been expressed by local residents.

The Environment Agency tested soil samples within a 1 km (0.6 mi) radius and found traces of Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a substance classified as a carcinogen by the US. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC).

This has led the Food Standards Agency to encourage anyone consuming food grown on nearby land to wash and peel it first.

In a statement, Wyre Council said: “Everyone in the country is exposed to very low levels of PFOA through their diet.

“According to available information, local residents who regularly consume large amounts of vegetables and fruits may be increasing their exposure to vegetables and fruits grown in gardens and fields.

“These samples confirm that PFOA is now present at a level that indicates further testing is required.”

He added that because the investigation is complex, it will likely be “a fairly lengthy process.”

Wyre Council said ICI and subsequent plant owner AGC Chemicals were allowed to use PFOA from the 1950s until 2012.

The substance was used in everyday items such as nonstick pans and waterproof clothing.