Exclusive: Launders Lane Smog Forcing Children Indoors Missing Out On Vital Outdoor Play.

A woman living less than a mile from the Launders Lane landfill site in Rainham, has spoken exclusively to the Havering Daily, about the devastating impact the site continues to have on residents and young children in the community.

Becky, who runs a nursery nearby, says the smog and fumes have left her with no choice but to restrict outdoor play for the children in her care.

“We used to have a site at the local allotments which was fantastic for our children. Many do not have gardens and being out in the open space was so valuable for them. But we stopped it due to the continuous smog covering the allotment. It wasn’t right for the children. They should be having open play, it is vital for them, but near here we have to frequently bring them in as their health is our priority,” Becky told the Havering Daily.

She has also noticed a worrying rise in asthma among local children.
“There are many children now using inhalers. It used to be around 1 in 40, now I would say it’s 10 in 40. There are more and more children using the blue inhalers.”

For Becky herself, living with asthma has become increasingly difficult.
“As soon as the fires start we can feel it, and lately the smog has got thicker and more dense. As soon as it starts, we bring the children indoors immediately. We know outdoor play is essential, but it’s only safe when the air is clear.”

She added: “I use my inhalers and steroids regularly. I even have emergency packs now containing antibiotics in case I develop a chest infection. I know when the fires are burning, because when I wake up my asthma is immediately worse. Some days I have to double dose as I’m still wheezing and need steroids. Our eyes are always itchy here and our noses constantly running.”

Residents nearby say they are forced to keep windows and doors shut because of the smell and heavy black dust.
“If I open my window, a black dust comes straight inside. Everything smells of smoke. This was a hot summer and we had to keep our windows and doors closed and even had to buy a dehumidifier. We have also noticed that the smog has got thicker and heavier in the air,” Becky explained.

Locals are angry at the situation and feel abandoned.
“We cannot believe how this is being allowed to happen. We are absolutely fed up. It is not right – and especially not right for children, who cannot have outdoor play anymore.”

Residents living near the landfill site are furious at their living conditions. They have also reported feeling much better away from the site. On holiday, many have clearly stated they do not need to user their inhalers, compared to multiple times a day in Rainham.

Just how much more can these residents take………….

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