Latest Multi-agency Investigation update
We are currently awaiting the Phase 3 Interpretive Report, which will provide an expert assessment of soil samples taken from residential gardens during autumn 2025.
In recent weeks, additional sampling has been carried out in a number of public open spaces to investigate whether EEA-NH4, a replacement for PFOA, is present in soils. Further sampling of locally produced eggs has also taken place.
We are also awaiting details from the Environment Agency on Phase 4 of the investigation. We will share further information on both the Phase 3 report and the next phase of work as soon as it becomes available.
Current advice from UK Health Security Agency
UK Health Security Agency advises residents to continue to enjoy their garden or outside space as they usually would, observing normal good hygiene practices such as washing hands before eating or drinking.
Current advice from the Food Standards Agency
The Food Standards Agency advises residents living within 1km of the Hillhouse site to wash and peel home grown produce before eating to remove soil and dust.
Residents may also want to consider the use of raised beds and fresh soil when growing their own produce.
Eggs produced within 1km of the Hillhouse site should not be eaten and birds kept for laying should not enter the food chain.