Artificially created volcano erupts annually, emitting harmful smoke into adjacent communities during summer months.
In the heart of Rainham, London, lies Arnolds Field, a source of frustration for local residents who feel trapped in a cycle of inaction and no one taking responsibility for addressing the issue. The landfill, often referred to as the "Rainham volcano" due to its tendency to catch fire and emit acrid smoke, has been a persistent problem for decades.
Residents report chronic exposure to the noxious smoke causing exacerbated lung symptoms, nausea, and overall poor well-being. Key health concerns include the aggravation of existing respiratory diseases, general respiratory discomfort, and a reduced quality of life due to staying indoors during smoke events and the persistent unpleasant odors.
Although no specific long-term epidemiological studies have been conducted, the ongoing exposure to hazardous airborne pollutants from the burning landfill poses a sustained health risk, particularly to vulnerable populations with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
Arnolds Field has caught fire around 160 times since 2020. Firefighters are frequently called to extinguish the fires, but are no longer allowed to set foot on the land due to the unstable ground and the risk of explosions.
The climate crisis is expected to push temperatures to record-breaking levels, which may lead to more fires in Rainham.
Margaret Mullane, Rainham's political representative, has called on the Mayor of London to do more to address the situation at Arnolds Field. Local campaign organization Clear the Air in Havering took the council's decision not to designate Arnolds Field as "contaminated" land to court and secured a victory last month.
The history of Arnolds Field includes its use as a legally authorized landfill from 1967, its subsequent purchase by North London Developments, and its illegal use as a trash dump from 2000 onwards. An engineering company uncovered waste and hazardous materials such as tires, plastic bags, timber, polystyrene, canisters, lead, benzo(a)pyrene, and asbestos during a series of trenches and boreholes up to 16 feet deep at the site.
Despite the concerns, health data analyses found no increased risk of certain cancers in Rainham compared to the surrounding area, and only a "modest" impact on the use of healthcare services on fire days. However, the constant running noses, headaches, and sore throats among residents highlight the immediate impact of the smoke.
The landowner, O'Donovan, has stated that it would cost hundreds of thousands of dollars just to apply for planning permission, and he has been given no assurances it would be successful. The Environment Agency provides "advice and guidance to help deal with the site," but the council is the "lead authority." The council is currently reviewing the court's ruling that found it had not properly considered the health impacts of the smoke pouring off Arnolds Field.
As the battle for a healthier environment in Rainham continues, residents remain hopeful for a resolution that will put an end to the "Rainham volcano" and its detrimental effects on their health and well-being.
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