Sheffield family forced out of house after chemical spill fear home may be DEMOLISHED

A Sheffield family forced to move into a hotel because of a chemical spillage next to their home fears they will be homeless when the new lockdown starts on Thursday.
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Michael and Sarah Wattam, their daughter and young granddaughter, were evacuated from their Mosborough home on safety grounds due to the spillage of toxic chemicals on the pub car park next door.

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Sheffield pub closed and residents forced to leave their homes after toxic waste...

The chemicals have seeped into the ground and contaminated the Wattam family home and their land.

A Sheffield family has been forced to move out of their home after a chemical spillage contaminated their landA Sheffield family has been forced to move out of their home after a chemical spillage contaminated their land
A Sheffield family has been forced to move out of their home after a chemical spillage contaminated their land
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The family fears their property may need to be demolished to dig out the contaminated soil beneath the house.

They have been offered emergency accommodation at a hotel but need to find a house to rent because of the new coronavirus lockdown due to begin on Thursday.

The family has been warned to expect to be out of their home for at least six months and to prepare for the possibility of demolition.

Sheffield Council’s environmental health department and the Environment Agency are investigating the incident.

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Tests have revealed that the toxic waste has not affected the local water supply.

Mr Wattam, 50, said: “We have had to move out of our home and no idea when it might be safe to return or if we will ever be able to.

“It’s bricks and mortar to me but it is devastating for my wife to lose our home in this way.

“Come Thursday when the new lockdown starts we don’t know where we will be living because we are currently in a hotel and they are affected by the new rules.”

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Councillor Mark Jones, Cabinet Member for Environment, Streetscene and Climate Change at Sheffield City Council, said: “We are aware of a chemical spill in Mosborough in the car park of the Royal Oak Pub, which has affected two households. The pub and car park are now closed whilst we respond to this incident.

“We are also working closely with Public Health England on this matter and we want to offer assurances to nearby residents that there is no current increased risk to health for those living nearby or travelling close to the area.

“However, if you notice a solvent smell, which may be sweet and, or, similar to paint thinner in or around your property, please contact your council immediately on 0114 2734567 for further assistance.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

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