Home / Environment / Former RAF Base Linked to 'Forever Chemical' Scandal
Former RAF Base Linked to 'Forever Chemical' Scandal
12 Jun
Summary
- Owner denies historical testing for forever chemicals at RAF Upper Heyford.
- Water testing revealed 'forever chemicals' 43,000 times above standards.
- Local council assures no immediate health risk to residents.
The owner of the former RAF Upper Heyford in Oxfordshire has addressed concerns regarding potential 'forever chemical' pollution emanating from the site. Dorchester Living, the site owner, clarified that past environmental testing did not specifically screen for polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), as these chemicals have only recently become a focal point for investigation.
These clarifications follow alarming discoveries where water samples downstream from the base showed elevated chemical levels. Independent testing by residents in a stream nearer to the historic airbase revealed 'forever chemical' concentrations 43,000 times higher than established environmental standards. The Environment Agency had previously flagged a risk of contamination due to historical firefighting activities.
Despite these findings, Cherwell District Council stated it is unaware of any immediate health risks to local residents. The council indicated a commitment to a precautionary, evidence-led approach and will secure necessary remediation or monitoring through future planning permissions, emphasizing that local authorities are the lead regulators for contaminated land.
Dorchester Living affirmed that development will adhere to national guidance, with any identified contamination to be remediated. They further noted that environmental investigations have been conducted according to prevailing regulatory standards and in consultation with the Environment Agency.
