The 'Rainham Volcano' Fire Prevention Plan: A Comprehensive Approach
An east London council is taking decisive action to tackle the persistent issue of fires at a former illegal landfill site, known as the 'Rainham Volcano'. This site, located in Arnolds Field on Launders Lane, has been a source of concern for residents due to its frequent blazes and the potentially harmful smoke they produce.
The site's history is marred by illegal activities, including fly tipping, illegal firearms storage, and drug production, which took place between 2002 and 2014. The accumulation of illegal waste, coupled with inadequate management, has been identified as the primary cause of the ongoing fires and smoke emissions.
To address this complex problem, Havering Council has devised a multi-faceted strategy. The plan involves spraying the areas most susceptible to fire with a polymer seal, a technique designed to reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the underground waste, thereby stifling the fires. This temporary measure is intended to provide the landowner with the necessary time to develop a more permanent solution.
Ray Morgan, the council's leader, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the council is working diligently to implement a solution before next summer. The council is in discussions with the landowner to ensure a swift transition from temporary to permanent measures. This could involve submitting planning applications for land development, which would include a comprehensive solution to the fire issue, or exploring alternative methods.
The council's proactive approach includes funding the initial work, although the exact cost remains undisclosed. They have also sought support from various government departments, including the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Ministry for Local Government, the Environment Agency, and the Greater London Authority, to assist in covering the expenses.
Despite the challenges, the council remains committed to swift action. Mr. Morgan assured residents that the council is moving as expeditiously as possible to prevent further suffering. The council's previous estimate suggests that any substantial works to halt the blazes could take between three to seven years to complete, underscoring the need for immediate measures.
The council's efforts come after a legal battle, where they were found to have acted unlawfully by not designating the land as contaminated. This decision was made by the High Court in June, following a campaign led by Clean the Air Havering. The council's response to this ruling has been to take immediate steps to address the issue, demonstrating a commitment to transparency and accountability.
As the council continues its efforts, residents can look forward to a more secure and healthier environment. The 'Rainham Volcano' fire prevention plan is a testament to the council's dedication to addressing a complex issue and ensuring the well-being of the local community.
