Residents in Thornton Cleveleys have been updated on the ongoing investigation into historic perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) contamination at Hillhouse Technology Enterprise Zone. The multi-agency investigation, launched in 2024, examines potential contamination from PFOA linked to the former ICI site Hillhouse, which is now operated by AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd. The chemical was used in manufacturing processes and released into the atmosphere between the 1950s and 2012.
Autumn 2025 marked the third phase of shallow soil sampling at residential properties near the site. According to the council, the “majority of properties tested showed concentrations of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, at a level considered to require no further action.” Some properties may need additional assessment, with results being reviewed by experts at the Environment Agency. Householders whose properties were sampled have been informed individually.
The multi-agency spokesperson acknowledged the investigation is at a “challenging stage” and emphasised that scientific interpretation is required before further questions can be addressed. Community drop-in sessions are planned for March 12 and March 17 at Thornton Cleveleys Football Club, allowing residents to ask questions and learn more about the investigation.
Hillhouse contamination: what Part 2A designation means for residents
The press release confirms that no land in either public or private ownership has been designated contaminated under Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. However, legal experts at Leigh Day note that designation depends on the risk of significant harm rather than the mere presence of contamination. .
Tom Sinclair, trainee solicitor at Leigh Day, explains that if historic emissions are found to have contaminated local residential areas, companies may be required to remediate as “appropriate persons” under the contaminated land regime. This could result in a remediation notice from the local authority.
Land is only formally designated as contaminated if significant harm is being caused or there is a significant possibility of harm, including damage to the health of living organisms or property. This highlights that the absence of a formal designation does not remove potential legal or remediation responsibilities.
Legal options for Thornton Cleveleys homeowners affected by PFOA contamination
The Leigh Day response also details legal avenues for affected residents. Homeowners may pursue claims for private or public nuisance, statutory nuisance, negligence, and claims under the Human Rights Act. Previous PFAS cases in the UK have resulted in settlements, while international examples, such as the Kallinge/Ronneby case in Sweden, show that residents can successfully argue that exposure constitutes personal injury. Liability is typically apportioned between responsible parties, under the “polluter pays” principle. Class A parties generally include the original polluter or those who knowingly permitted contamination, while Class B parties include current owners or occupiers. Only in the absence of Class A parties would Class B parties be responsible for remediation.
Property values may also be affected, and evidence such as PFAS blood tests, land surveys, and soil testing may be required for legal claims. Time limits apply, with personal injury claims limited to three years from knowledge or injury, and nuisance or negligence claims to six years from the cause of action.
How residents can access Hillhouse investigation information
Residents of Thornton Cleveleys are encouraged to attend community drop-in sessions to put questions directly to the investigating agencies. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss test results and better understand the ongoing assessment process. The press release emphasises transparency, while the legal guidance notes that access to testing results may be delayed due to investigatory processes.
The multi-agency spokesperson said, “We fully understand that residents are eager to know what the next steps will be. Throughout this process, we have made transparency with the community our priority and we will continue to share updates as soon as we receive further information.”
What Thornton Cleveleys resident need know
Taken together, the council’s communications and the legal guidance highlight the distinction between administrative reassurance and ongoing risk. While the majority of properties reportedly require no further action, the absence of a formal designation does not preclude remediation obligations or legal claims. Residents concerned about potential exposure may wish to consider the legal context alongside the scientific findings. Leigh Day provides a dedicated email for PFAS inquiries, and residents may also approach Wyre Council and the Environment Agency for further information.
The investigation highlights the intersection of scientific assessment, regulatory procedure, and legal accountability, demonstrating that historic industrial contamination may carry ongoing implications for affected communities.
Potential PFA blood testing for Thornton Cleveleys residents
On 25 May 2026, residents living near the affected land were given fresh hope when legal representatives indicated that blood testing may become available. Previously, locals had been advised that the National Health Service and Wyre Council would not pay for blood tests. However, Sarah Moore, Partner at Leigh Day Solicitors told a public meeting that “other communities impacted by PFAS pollution have access to blood tests so that the extent of their exposure can be evaluated”. Moore said Wyre Council had rejected blood tests for residents. Ms Moore added: “The Leigh Day team are working with our independent experts to consider whether we may be able to provide access to blood testing for a small number of residents.”
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