Report Finds Chemical Contamination at Former RAF Base is Worst in UK

A report concerning the former RAF Upper Heyford site has revealed that polyfluoroalkyl substances contamination there exceeds levels found anywhere else in the United Kingdom. The property, which is slated for thousands of new homes, was evaluated on behalf of a developer, uncovering unacceptable concentrations of these man-made compounds.

Testing at the former RAF base revealed the highest levels of forever chemicals in the UK.

Often called forever chemicals because they resist natural breakdown, these substances are linked to various health issues, including cancer. Past investigations by campaigners and the Environment Agency had already sparked worries that the military location might be leaching pollution into local waterways. Historical operations at the base involved extensive use of firefighting foams, particularly around a fuel pond where crews practiced extinguishing aircraft blazes. This specific zone was identified as the primary ongoing source of the chemical presence.

Groundwater and surface water assessments determined that contamination across the property is widespread, with every tested sample failing to meet standard environmental benchmarks. Furthermore, independent analysis by a local environmental group detected elevated chemical concentrations in numerous streams originating beneath the base. Approximately 1,300 houses have already been established within the boundaries of the development area.

Representatives for the developer, Dorchester Living, stated that residential soil checks confirmed those living areas remain safe for use. The firm indicated that the overall contamination could be addressed through a structured remediation strategy submitted alongside recent planning documents. Nevertheless, local inhabitants and regional representatives have voiced anxieties regarding current populations and proposed projects, such as a designated primary school site where water samples also breached safety thresholds. Community members have expressed distress over potential health risks linked to homegrown produce and local waterways, while advocacy groups emphasize that safeguarding existing residents must remain the absolute priority.