Cheltenham residents have endured persistent dust settling on their homes and gardens due to earth-moving work at the nearby Folley development in Swindon Village during the recent heatwave. The construction of 122 new homes on the former playing field has generated significant dust, exacerbated by prolonged dry and hot weather conditions.
Following residents’ complaints and evidence gathered by Councillor Richard Lawler, Cheltenham Borough Council’s environmental health team conducted multiple site inspections. Despite the developer’s use of additional dust suppression methods, including water spraying and misting equipment, residents reported ongoing issues.
As voluntary measures failed to adequately control the dust, the council issued an abatement notice to the builders on July 14. The notice mandates that all work producing visible dust must cease unless effective dust control measures are in place, with potential enforcement action for non-compliance.
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Councillor Lawler expressed sympathy for those affected, emphasizing that residents should not have had to endure weeks of dust and praised efforts to resolve the matter before enforcement became necessary.
Councillor Jamie Jamieson, cabinet member for safety and communities, noted that the dry weather presented challenges but confirmed that the environmental protection team’s continued monitoring has led to improved dust control practices.
E G Carter & Co Ltd, the contractors working for Aster Homes, acknowledged the exceptional weather conditions but stated they have implemented extensive dust mitigation strategies beyond regulatory requirements. These include damping down the site, use of water bowsers, road sweeping, misting, and revised construction methods.
The company affirmed ongoing cooperation with the council’s environmental health team and reiterated their commitment to minimizing disruption. They also highlighted the benefits of the development, which will deliver affordable housing, community parks, and play areas, and support the local economy through employment and apprenticeship opportunities.
E G Carter strongly denied any allegations of negligence or disregard for the community, affirming compliance with all regulations and active engagement with residents and local institutions, including Gardners Lane Primary School.