A major independent assessment into the potential cumulative impacts of living near Saxon Pit in Whittlesey on health and wellbeing has been published by Cambridgeshire County Council. The Cumulative Health Impact Assessment (CHIA), released on 7 October, combines survey responses, in-depth interviews, and community input to offer a detailed picture of residents' experiences and inform future public health actions. This work supports the council's aim for a "healthy, fair and sustainable Cambridgeshire" by enhancing understanding of factors influencing residents' health.
The study was prompted by a public health risk assessment in January 2026, which highlighted the need to better understand the cumulative effects of activities around Saxon Pit on daily life. Evidence was gathered through a four-week survey with 238 responses and 18 interviews with residents living within 1km of the site. While the CHIA does not establish direct cause and effect or attribute impacts to specific operators, it offers valuable insights into how residents perceive local environmental conditions affecting their lives, health, and wellbeing, based on their reported experiences.
Dust was the most frequently reported environmental concern, with 88% of survey respondents experiencing it in the past 12 months. Perceived poor air quality (73%), odour (61%), and noise (58%) were also common. Reported impacts generally decreased with distance from the site, most notably for noise, where 51% of households within 200m reported a high impact, compared to 17% between 500m and 1km. Similar trends were observed for dust, perceived air quality, and odour.
Many respondents experienced multiple issues simultaneously, with 93% reporting two or more environmental stressors and 84% reporting three or more in the previous year. The assessment also noted that many residents felt environmental conditions had worsened in recent years, with 82% believing the combined effect of local issues was greater than individual problems. Those with existing health conditions or disabilities, and those spending most of the day at home, tended to report more severe impacts. A significant concern was the potential impact on children, older people, and vulnerable residents, with 91% of respondents expressing worry for these groups.
Some residents have adapted their routines, such as keeping windows closed or reducing outdoor time. The assessment captured a range of experiences, with some reporting minimal impact. Sally Cartwright, Director of Public Health for Cambridgeshire County Council, stated, "This assessment provides an important evidence base about how residents living near Saxon Pit experience their local environment and the effect they say it has on their health and wellbeing." She added that the study's focus on lived experiences is a strength, helping the council understand residents' concerns and how pressures combine over time. The council will now invite residents, operators, and regulators to respond to the findings, and her team will review this evidence alongside previous recommendations to determine further public health action.
The findings will also be considered by the Oversight Group, established following the original risk assessment. This group includes county, local district, and town councillors, residents, operators, and regulators. Any strengthened or new public health actions will be progressed through this group and shared with regulators.
