Full Breakdown
Toxic Waste Risks at Cheshire Landfill Site
3/29/2026, 11:00:54 AM
Elevated Toxicity Levels Detected
Recent tests have revealed "potentially unacceptable risks" from toxic waste, including Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), at the Commonside landfill site in Alvanley, Cheshire. The preliminary assessment conducted for Cheshire West and Chester Council indicated "low to moderate" risks to human health at the site and "moderate to high" risks at the nearby Foxhill Brook, which drains into the Mersey estuary. The findings were part of an investigation launched under the Environmental Protection Act (EPA) in 2024 to determine if the land should be classified as contaminated.
The landfill site operated from 1956 to 1975 and accepted PCB waste from the British Insulated Callender's Cables (BICC) factory located 2 kilometers away in Helsby. Testing for the BBC podcast "Buried" found PCB levels in the mud adjacent to the brook that were 1,000 times above the recommended UK limit. Additionally, PCB levels at the BICC site were reported to be over 12,000 times the safe level, exceeding measurable limits.
Health Risks and Environmental Concerns
The assessment highlighted that the identified risks do not confirm ongoing harm or pollution but indicate a need for further evaluation. Potential health risks are linked to exposure from impacted soils, water, and sediments in the brook, as well as vapors and landfill gas. Observations noted a "strong chemical odour" in parts of the brook, and contaminants from the landfill were detected.
The risks to shallow groundwater were categorized as "moderate," while deeper groundwater, which serves as a local drinking water source, posed a low risk. However, the report emphasized that additional information is necessary to fully understand these risks. United Utilities, the local water provider, stated that routine testing of water quality from its borehole has consistently yielded good results.
Historical Context and Future Investigations
Historically, a successful prosecution occurred in 1991 due to PCB waste flowing from the landfill into the brook. However, remediation efforts were stalled because the landowner lacked the financial means, and the former National Rivers Authority could not secure funding for cleanup. Currently, there is no registered owner for the Commonside site.
The assessment recommends a comprehensive investigation, including exploratory digging and sampling of water and sediment from the brook and drainage ditches. Paul Jackson, a local farmer, expressed skepticism about the council's past actions and future plans, stating, "I'm not confident with anything the council are going to do and have done in the past."
Conclusion
The situation at the Commonside landfill site underscores significant environmental and health concerns related to toxic waste management. As investigations continue, the local community remains vigilant about the potential risks posed by the site and the effectiveness of the council's response.
