Residents Reassured After Fresh Pollution Concerns on Ashley Way Estate

Residents are being reassured there has been no further pollution incident on the Ashley Way estate in Market Harborough.

The Environment Agency responded after oil was spotted again in a ditch in a wooded area next to the A6 — the site of a major deliberate spill in March — along with reports of a strong smell.

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien also raised concerns and visited the site.

Harborough MP Neil O’Brien also raised concerns and visited the site.

Investigations have now confirmed the substance is residue from the earlier incident, which has resurfaced following rainfall, and officials say it poses only a minimal risk to the environment.

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “We responded promptly to reports of a pollution incident and following an inspection of the site we believe this is residue from the previous incident and presents a minimal risk to the environment.

“We will continue monitor the situation and urge anyone who witnesses further pollution to contact our 24/7 environmental incidents hotline.”

The Environment Agency responded after oil was spotted again in a ditch in a wooded area next to the A6 Pic: Adrian Troughton

A major clean-up operation following the original incident saw around 150 tonnes of dumped oil and 16 tonnes of contaminated soil and vegetation removed from the area beside a well-used footpath.

Specialist contractors were called in after the spill is believed to have entered the watercourse through a drain in an A6 layby.

Harborough District Council says it understands residents’ concerns and is continuing to work with the Environment Agency and other organisations.

Cllr David Page, Cabinet Lead for Neighbourhood Services, said: “We want to stand proactively by our residents and protect the neighbourhoods in which they live, and we will support all efforts to ensure concerns are properly investigated.”