A row over plans for housing that is allegedly near “contaminated” land has ramped up amidst fears residents should be protected from the claims.
In July, revised plans were submitted for eight homes at Swallow Falls, near Rowden Hill in Chippenham.
Plans for the site, which was a sandpit before being filled during Victorian times, have caused controversy over claims land in the area is contaminated.
As previously reported, the safety of land at the site has been at the centre of the dispute.
READ MORE: Investigation carried out after claims of 'contaminated' land
Investigations show the former pit poses a “low to moderate risk” but some remain concerned about reports showing that adjacent plots could be more dangerous.
Resident John Heselden previsouly said: “Arsenic, cyanide, lead, selenium, hydrocarbons, mercury and phenols are all highly toxic and associated with loss of life and if disturbed will be harmful to the health of existing residents and cause an environmental disaster.”
Rosemary Ayres added: “Any development would pose another serious risk to many nearby homes.”
The residents refer to a contamination report carried out for a nearby Redcliffe Homes application in 2007, which revealed chemicals such as arsenic, cyanide, lead and mercury within the soil.
The report was carried out by a firm called Robson Liddle and appears to note that “unacceptable risks are associated with the site”.
However, when asked about this report, a representative of Redcliffe Homes provided a different report published the following year, also by Robson Liddle, which concluded that “there is no significant risk to human health from levels of contaminants recorded across the site”.
According to Companies House, Robson Liddle was dissolved more than six years ago, and contact details are not available.
Cllr David Poole has now called for Wiltshire Council to carry out further investigations before allowing any development
He said: “I’ve seen a report going back to 2007 that states land in this area is seriously contaminated.
“I would recommend objection on that ground before we have a proper survey.
“As a local councillor I would be failing in my duty to not highlight this and protect residents.”
Cllr John Scragg added: “I’m concerned about the contamination question and horrified to hear the list of minerals that may occur there.
“I think even on that ground we should ensure this is raised by our Wiltshire councillor.”
Nearby residents like John Heselden also raised concerns over “a huge loss” of privacy because the new homes would be able to see into his bedroom and bathroom.
He added: “It will totally block natural light… from our sitting room we have enjoyed a 100-metre view but all we will see is a brick wall, not even the sky.”
Charles Manning, acting on behalf of the applicant, said claims of contaminated land were “unsubstantiated” and data presented by objectors were from separate sites that have since been built on.
He added: “The representations to the Council by the objecting party are not backed by legitimate evidence or data relating to this site and are therefore irrelevant to this application.
“The Swallow Falls site has not been investigated for any contamination until this application has been put forward, in response to these baseless accusations.
“It is important to note that the site has been subject to contamination investigation and subsequent scientific analysis by Oakshire Environmental, a reputable, independent firm whose results clearly demonstrate the site is of low risk and not contaminated.
“The report is available for the public to view on the Wiltshire Council application site.
“The Environment Agency has given further feedback regarding contamination, their response was positive and they support the application, recommending with conditions attached to the planning approval once works commence.”
Wiltshire Council said it would be inappropriate to comment in detail while the application was live.
Leader Cllr Richard Clewer said: "The comments from Chippenham Town Council in response to this application have been noted.
"As this is a live application it would be inappropriate to comment at this time. If the Town Council or other parties have evidence of contamination that they wish to share, this should be provided by submitting comments to the council in the normal way.
"The planning application will be processed in accordance with planning law, having regard to national and local planning policy.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article