Persistent dust pollution hotline launched

The launch of a round-the-clock helpline for residents affected by persistent dust pollution could help to identify its source, a council has said.

Thurrock Council's dedicated "dust line" went live on 7 April and will allow residents in Tilbury, Essex, to directly report any incidents to the local authority.

Environmental protection officers will use this information to carry out visits, gather evidence, and determine if complaints fall under the council's remit or to another regulator.

Roy Jones, the council's overview and scrutiny committee chairman, said: "I'm pleased we're finally moving in the right direction."

Michael Dineen, the assistant director for community protection and enforcement services at the council, described the problem as a priority in a place overview and scrutiny committee meeting on Thursday, 26 March.

"The issue with nuisance dust has been longstanding," he said.

"We've brought everyone around the table to try to find some solutions, and establishing a single point of contact for residents is an important step."

Meetings have already taken place between the council and the Environment Agency, Port Authority, Port Health and public health officials.

From this, the Environment Agency has committed to stationing a permanent staff member at Tilbury Port, whereas the Port Health Authority will supply three part-time officers to monitor issues.

The Local Democracy Reporting Service said the agencies will meet quarterly to track progress.

Previously, residents have blamed the town's port for the ongoing problem with dust covering their homes and cars, and the Port of Tilbury said in October that it "takes its responsibilities as a business and neighbour seriously".

"We adhere to all statutory environmental requirements and, in Tilbury2 specifically, we have all required dust suppression systems in place across the site."

Discussions took place last year to determine whether a new dust analysis should be commissioned following complaints that port facility Tilbury2 had increased dust levels.

Dineen said: "If regulations aren't working or aren't being adhered to, my officers will be speaking with the Environment Agency. We'll be there to make sure they act for our residents."

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