Mine water treatment by-product ochre is being used to stabilise contaminated soil

PC: Mining Remediation Authority A long-derelict brownfield site in the heart of Chester is being prepared for a new residential development after mine water treatment by-product was reused to stabilise contaminated soil.The 5,200 square metre site was historically occupied by lead works and later used as a car park. It remained undeveloped because of legacy contamination, including lead-impacted soils and asbestos-containing materials.According to the Mining Remediation Authority, ochre produced during mine water treatment is being used to manage the contamination safely on site. The approach involves mixing the iron-rich material into the ground so contaminants remain bound within the soil.Why is ochre being used at the former lead works siteThe project uses ochre from the Mining Remediation Authority’s Deerplay mine water treatment scheme in Bacup, East Lancashire. Ochre is a naturally occurring iron-rich material produced during mine water treatment. The ochre is being supplied and applied in partnership with remediation specialist Rhodar at the former lead works site in Chester.The site covers 5,200 square metres and was later used as a car park. It has remained undeveloped fo...