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Update October 2026
The information below includes the latest updates relating to PFAS and matters raised by residents.
PFAS in Cherwell District
We are aware of two locations within Cherwell that may have PFAS contamination due to specific historical usage: Upper Heyford and Islip.
We want to be clear to residents that if any contamination is found in any part of Cherwell, we will ensure it is properly investigated and, where necessary, remediated before development can proceed.
The council will continue to take a precautionary and evidence-led approach. Through the planning process, developers may be required to undertake testing, carry out remediation works and provide independent verification that land is suitable for its intended use before homes or other development are occupied.
Development updates
Former fuel depot at Islip
As an example, a situation was identified at the former fuel depot in Islip. We can confirm that all containers of firefighting foam have been removed from the site. Ground contamination will be addressed through conditions attached to the recent planning permission. Details are available on our planning portal using ref 25/02918/OUT.
Heyford Park investigations
Environmental monitoring and water working group
The first Environmental Monitoring and Water Working Group meeting took place on 16 September 2026. Representatives from the Environment Agency and Cherwell District Council reviewed the available evidence and agreed further work to improve understanding of PFAS in groundwater, surface water, and drainage systems around Heyford Park.
The group identified some actions for the developer, Dorchester Living, which include:
- Carrying out further monitoring of groundwater and surface water, including during wetter conditions
- Improving understanding of drainage connections across the site
- Developing a site-wide conceptual model to help understand how PFAS may move through the environment
The Environment Agency will continue to progress its independent monitoring programme, subject to approvals. Initial results are expected later this year.
Cherwell District Council will continue sampling local private water supplies and the public tap at Upper Heyford. Results will be shared once they have been validated.
A separate Health and Exposure Working Group is being established to consider the monitoring evidence and potential ways people could be exposed to PFAS.
Investigations are continuing and further evidence is being gathered. No definitive conclusions have been reached about health risks, remediation requirements or long-term responsibility.
The next Environmental Monitoring and Water Working Group meeting is scheduled for 28 October 2026. We will publish further updates on this webpage as information becomes available.
Health information
Blood testing
Following recent media coverage relating to PFAS and blood testing elsewhere in the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has provided the following information:
Why might PFAS be found in people’s blood?
PFAS are widely present in the environment and in everyday products. Many people in the UK are therefore likely to have measurable levels of some PFAS in their blood. Exposure can come from several sources, including food, drinking water, air, dust and consumer products.
What does a PFAS blood test show?
A PFAS blood test may show PFAS are present in the body, and exposure has occurred, but it cannot usually identify where an individual’s exposure came from, when it happened or what effect it may have on a person’s health.
Can a PFAS blood test predict future health problems?
No. Current PFAS tests cannot predict future health outcomes or determine whether PFAS has caused an existing condition. The potential health effects of PFAS exposure remain uncertain, and research is continuing.
Should residents arrange a PFAS blood test?
PFAS are widespread in the environment, and exposure can come from many sources, including food, drinking water, air and everyday products. A blood test cannot identify where exposure came from, predict future health problems or determine the cause of an existing health condition.
PFAS biomonitoring (blood test) is not currently available through the NHS and is not advised through private laboratories, since the tests are unlikely to provide clear information about individual health risk or actionable next steps given how widespread and varied PFAS exposure sources are.
Anyone with symptoms or specific concerns about their health should contact their GP, who can assess them and arrange appropriate care through established clinical pathways.
Further information
For further information, please see the following links:
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): general information - GOV.UK
The health impacts from industrial sources of PFAS: a rapid review - GOV.UK