Uncovering PFOA Contamination in Cumbria and Lancashire

Recent investigations have revealed significant contamination of rivers and groundwater in Cumbria and Lancashire due to high levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), specifically the banned chemical perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). A report by Watershed Investigations and the Guardian, based on a freedom of information request, identified 25 sites with PFOS concentrations exceeding the drinking water guideline limit of 100 ng/l. At one location, groundwater was found to contain PFOS at an alarming level of 3,840 ng/l. The contamination affects an area recognized for its natural beauty and environmental protections.

The Guardian

PFOS is classified as a "forever chemical" due to its persistence in the environment and its association with serious health risks. The Environment Agency first detected elevated PFAS levels in the region in 2022 through its national surveillance monitoring program. Potential sources of contamination include a paper mill in Beetham, which previously used PFAS, and several historical landfills, sewage treatment works, and fire stations. The mill has since changed ownership, and the new operator, Pelta Medical Papers, claims no PFAS-based chemicals are currently used on-site.

The Guardian

The Environment Agency has stated that local authorities bear the responsibility for protecting users of private water supplies. In 2025, the agency informed local councils and health authorities about the contamination. The UK government has introduced a new PFAS action plan aimed at tightening regulations on these chemicals, including consultations on statutory limits for PFAS levels in drinking water. However, environmental groups like Water UK advocate for an outright ban on PFAS, arguing that the government's measures are insufficient and lack binding commitments.

The Guardian

Critics have expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the government's action plan. Chloe Alexander, chemicals policy lead at Wildlife and Countryside Link, described the plan as “a roadmap to nowhere,” citing its lack of binding phaseouts and clear timelines. Hannah Evans from the environmental charity Fidra emphasized the urgent need for the UK to transition to PFAS-free alternatives, highlighting the prevalence of PFAS pollution and its dire implications for public health.

The Guardian

While the Environment Agency has identified potential sources of PFAS contamination, the exact origins remain unclear, and the response from local authorities has been criticized for being inadequate. The former operators of the paper mill have not commented on the situation, leaving questions about accountability and remediation efforts unanswered.

The Guardian

• “Persistent chemicals should not be in our drinking water, our food, or our bodies.” — Hannah Evans, Fidra

The Guardian

• “We risk falling further behind other European nations, which are increasingly banning these substances and demanding manufacturers pay for clean up.” — Water UK

The Guardian

• “The mill is now operated by a new legal entity,” — Robyn Khan, Pelta Medical Papers

The Guardian

The situation in Cumbria and Lancashire underscores the ongoing challenges posed by PFAS contamination and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to protect public health and the environment.

The Guardian