Unveiling the Hidden Threat: The Race to Identify and Eliminate Carcinogenic Pfas in Cumbria and Lancashire Waters
A recent investigation has revealed a toxic pollution crisis in Cumbria and Lancashire, with high levels of the banned cancer-causing chemical Pfos detected in rivers and groundwater at 25 sites. This revelation comes as a shock, especially considering the area's natural beauty and wildlife protections.
The contamination was uncovered by Watershed Investigations and The Guardian after a freedom of information request revealed high concentrations of Pfos in Environment Agency samples taken in January 2025. Pfos, known as 'forever chemicals' due to their long degradation periods, are widely used in consumer products and linked to serious health issues.
One site recorded Pfos levels at 3,840ng/l, alongside elevated levels of other banned Pfas compounds. This exceeds the drinking water guideline limits of 100ng/l for 48 Pfas compounds. The contamination spans an area of outstanding natural beauty, raising concerns about the impact on wildlife and habitats.
A resident whose business's private well was polluted discovered the issue in November 2021 after being 'unofficially' informed by an individual at the Environment Agency. The resident immediately stopped drinking the water, which had been tested for 35 years due to 'chemical drift' concerns. The Environment Agency offered no help, directing the resident to Westmorland and Furness Council, which was unable to test for Pfas.
The council, informed in late 2021, advised the business to switch to mains water. While they've supported compliance with statutory requirements, the resident remains concerned, as no source of pollution has been identified.
The Environment Agency identified elevated Pfas levels in 2022 through its national surveillance monitoring program. They alerted the private borehole owner and advised them to contact the local council, informing various authorities in 2025. Possible sources include a paper mill in Beetham, where Pfas were used, and historical landfills.
The paper mill's operator went into administration in June 2025, with the new operator, Pelta Medical Papers, denying any current Pfas use. The mill's administrators, Kroll Advisory, did not respond to comments.
The Environment Agency's report identified five historical landfills and one operational landfill as potential sources, alongside sewage treatment works, fire stations, and caravan park discharges. The government's new Pfas action plan aims to tighten controls, including contaminated land guidance, a consultation on statutory limits, and potentially tougher industrial site rules.
However, Water UK advocates for a complete ban on Pfas, warning of falling behind European nations in banning and cleanup costs. Chloe Alexander, from Wildlife and Countryside Link, criticizes the government's plan for lacking binding phaseouts, clear timetables, and EU-level commitment.
With approximately 33,000 private water supplies in England, the vulnerability of some supplies is increasing due to climate change, droughts, and environmental pollution. The need for a Pfas-free transition is urgent, as these chemicals should not be present in drinking water, food, or the human body.
