Earthwatch Europe has released findings indicating the presence of metals and metalloids at potentially hazardous concentrations across freshwater and soil sites in Corby, Northamptonshire. The charity’s trained citizen scientists conducted sampling during July, collecting 28 soil samples alongside freshwater analysis from 52 locations. The results showed that at every freshwater site examined, at least one metal or metalloid was detected at levels exceeding thresholds where no adverse ecological effects are anticipated. Nickel was identified in 28 freshwater samples while cadmium was present in six samples. Elevated concentrations of cadmium and arsenic in soil were predominantly found near Deene Quarry and a former slag heap in Weldon.
Earthwatch Europe’s scientific advisors suggest the findings indicate areas requiring further investigation and remedial measures. The group characterized the pollution source as relatively constant, likely stemming from groundwater and landfill leachate rather than urban runoff. This latest report follows earlier this year findings from the same organization concerning metal presence and potential harm to aquatic life, which drew responses from the Environment Agency questioning the significance of the detected levels.
The Corby contamination issue connects to historical events in the 1980s when steelworks were demolished, with subsequent reports of birth defects among children born in the town. A 2009 court ruling found Corby Borough Council negligent in waste management. The current findings have renewed attention from campaigners including families affected by the earlier scandal. Local officials and regulatory bodies stated they would review the data, with the Environment Agency indicating its own monitoring has not revealed widespread harm, while North Northamptonshire Council—which assumed responsibilities from Corby council in 2021—pledged to assess the evidence through appropriate regulatory channels.
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