Concerns raised about PFAS leaking from three UK military bases

By Julia Robinson2025-04-23T13:30:00

A firefighter uses foam from a powerful hose to tackle an outdoor blaze

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Sites could pose a threat to drinking water supplies and sensitive freshwater environments

An investigation of three UK military bases is to be carried out after concerns were raised that they may be leaking per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) into drinking water sources.

RAF Marham in Norfolk, RM Chivenor in Devon and AAC Middle Wallop in Hampshire were identified using a new PFAS risk screening tool developed by the Environment Agency (EA), which has been designed to locate and prioritise pollution threats.