Contaminated land case study - Carmarthen

Tests are to be carried out on a Carmarthen housing estate after initial investigations revealed evidence of chemicals present in the land.

Records indicate that a small gas works was located on the site from 1893, which was developed at regular intervals until at least 1938. Carmarthenshire Council will carry out soil sampling and groundwater tests at nine homes in Heol Dyfnallt before Christmas, to confirm the level of contamination and ascertain whether a clean-up operation is required.

Although council officials have stated there is no suggestion that residents health has or will be affected, the uncertainty associated with owning a property on contaminated land is becoming clear. One local councillor has already expressed his concern: "Many families have invested large amounts of their hard-earned money improving their homes. It would be a disaster for them and the close community if the samples tell us that serious action is required to solve the problem."

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