Corby Metal Pollution May Pose Risk to Humans, Study Finds

Campaigners investigating the lingering effects of a toxic waste scandal in Corby, England, have detected the presence of metals that could pose a risk to human health, according to a new study by Earthwatch Europe. This finding follows previous research by the same charity that suggested the metals could harm aquatic life, a claim disputed by the Environment Agency (EA).

New Findings and Concerns

In July, trained citizen scientists collected 52 freshwater and 28 soil samples across Corby. Earthwatch Europe reported that at every freshwater site tested, at least one metal or metalloid was present at concentrations exceeding levels where "no adverse ecological effects are expected." Nickel was detected in 28 freshwater samples, and cadmium was found in six. The charity's analysis suggests a consistent source of pollution, likely from groundwater and landfill leachate, rather than urban runoff.

Elevated concentrations of cadmium and nickel in freshwater, and cadmium and arsenic in soil, were predominantly found near Deene Quarry and a former slag heap in Weldon. Dr. Sasha Woods, a scientific advisor for Earthwatch Europe, stated that these findings indicate "where further investigation and remedial action may be needed." She added that the results suggest some metals are present in freshwater at levels that could harm aquatic life, and in soil at levels that could impact human health, especially in areas close to historical waste sites.

Official Responses and Historical Context

The Environment Agency acknowledged the work but maintained that some metals occur naturally and that its own evidence does not indicate "widespread or significant harm" to the freshwater environment in the Corby area. An EA spokesperson stated they are reviewing the Earthwatch Europe report and will take further action if necessary.

North Northamptonshire Council also welcomed the report and pledged to thoroughly assess the data. A council spokesperson assured residents that any credible evidence of risk to human health or the environment would be investigated through appropriate regulatory processes.

This latest study revisits concerns stemming from the demolition of Corby's steelworks in the 1980s. The site's waste materials have been linked to birth defects in children born in the town. In 2009, a ruling favored 18 Corby families, finding Corby Borough Council negligent in managing the waste. Tracey Taylor, whose baby daughter died shortly after birth, has been a long-time advocate for justice and expressed hope that the new report would lead to greater acknowledgment of the community's plight.

Lee Barron, the Labour MP for Corby and East Northamptonshire, urged the local council to publish a plan to make the affected sites safe, emphasizing the duty of local authorities to identify and mitigate contamination risks. He stated, "It needs sorting."