Rainham Residents Hit Out: ‘Stop Fobbing Us Off-We Have The Right To Live.’

After years of smoke, sickness and sleepless nights, Rainham residents have finally been heard.
Havering Council has now ruled that Arnold’s Field on Launders Lane is officially “contaminated land” — a landmark moment in a battle that has left an entire community fighting for its health and peace of mind.

Campaigners say this decision has come far too late after years of fires, toxic fumes and what they believe is council inaction. They now want action — not more promises.

“This determination has been far too long in coming,” said Cathy from the Launders Lane Steering group.. “Just how many residents have suffered unnecessarily because of the council’s intransigence in dealing with this in a timely manner? I am very angry at what I’ve suffered — and I know of many others who are living with horrendous health conditions because of the contamination on that land.”

“For over three years the steering group has been raising awareness, to the point of almost pleading with the council to do something,” another resident added. “Why did it take a judge to force their hand? And even then, they have dragged their feet.”

High readings of PM2.5 — dangerous fine particles linked to respiratory and cardiac illness have shocked the community. Residents say the delays are unacceptable and their patience has run out.

“Why does everything have to take so long?” said Pauline who suffers with life threatening COPD. “It feels like they’re just finding the next excuse to drag their heels again. If something is done soon, maybe we can finally live a normal life. I’ve had one awful summer — more rescue packs than I ever need in winter, and I’m scared. I have poor immunity. I’ve spent too long in A&E. I wake up gasping to breathe. I’m drained and I just think everyone is fobbing us off.”

“We don’t want to be fobbed off,” said Pauline. “We have the right to live normally. Will they go round in circles again? Or will someone actually do something? Our lives are at risk. We fight every day for justice.”

As Rainham residents call for immediate action and transparency, one thing is certain — after years of suffering and broken promises, they rightly won’t be silenced.

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