Ahead of the BBC documentary Buried with Michael Sheen airing on August 17, recent media reports have raised concerns about the Llwyneinion Acid Tar Lagoon and the former Monsanto Chemical Waste Tip.
A headline this week claimed the council believes the sites are “not dangerous enough” to justify a clean up. This is simply not true. The council has never used this phrase, and it does not reflect our position.
Over many years, the council has carried out extensive investigations following Welsh Government and other expert guidance.
These studies show that, although contaminants are present, the sites do not meet the legal definition of contaminated land under national law. This conclusion is based on scientific evidence and a clear national risk assessment process — not on cost, and not on downplaying risk.
We continue to inspect the sites, monitor streams and groundwater, and maintain fencing and warning signs to keep the areas secure. This work goes beyond our minimum legal duties and reflects our commitment to protecting public health and the environment.
If new, reliable evidence is shared with us, we will review it thoroughly using national guidance and the best available science.
We would also welcome the return of the Welsh Government’s contaminated land capital grant scheme, which previously supported councils to carry out proactive investigations that could help unlock future remediation funding.
Wrexham’s industrial past is part of our shared history, and we remain committed to managing its legacy responsibly, openly, and with the wellbeing of our communities at the forefront.
