Tests find cyanide in soil around Grenfell
Soil tests around Grenfell Tower have revealed toxins that could have health implications for local residents, according to early findings from a toxicology study. Professor Anna Stec, who conducted the research, is said to have found “huge concentrations” of potential carcinogens in the soil and dust around the west London tower block. It has been reported that the professor in fire chemistry and toxicity at the University of Central Lancashire warned senior health officials, the police and Kensington and Chelsea Council of the need for further tests. She is also said to have found high levels of hydrogen cyanide in the soil she analysed. Professor Stec said she had taken a high number of samples from locations up to almost a mile away from the tower. A spokesman for Public Health England said the agency had received a phone call from the professor but had not been briefed and had not seen the data. The agency has been monitoring the air quality around the tower and has consistently said it has found nothing of concern. Seventy one people died in the blaze on June 14 last year, with a 72nd victim dying months later in hospital.