Arsenic and old waste at former Fort George site

TODAY the Sentinel can reveal how traces of potentially lethal toxins such as arsenic, asbestos, explosives and even radioactive material are just some of the pollutants that must be cleansed from Fort George to make sure it is safe to use.

By The Newsroom

Published 18th Jul 2012, 17:28 BST

Inside today’s paper readers will find details of a newly published Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) that has been produced to accompany a fresh planning application for the landmark ILEX regeneration site.

The environmental study shows there is a potential risk of a whole host of industrial pollutants affecting people living near the site. There is also a potential risk to the environment.

Whilst of concern for future users of a proposed new Science Park and mixed use development it is a major concern for people living in the Pennyburn and Strand areas who the Sentinel revealed this Spring were amongst the most likely people in Londonderry to suffer and die from cancer.

The new report warns that people could be at risk through direct skin contact, inhalation of vapours, dust and gas, the ingestion of soil dust and home grown vegetables. (see page 15)

Spring