Local people washing dangerous chemicals down the sink could be contributing to an ecological timebomb, according to the agency tasked with cleaning up Thanet’s groundwater.

The Environment Agency last week revealed a 20-year plan to improve the water quality, which it says is “lower than we would hope.”

The groundwater, which forms part of the drinking water supply, contains a variety of nitrates, pesticides and solvents, although the agency insisted there was “absolutely no risk” to human health.

Experts said that while previous industrial accidents had exacerbated the problem, much of the contamination was caused by local people disposing of harmful substances like white spirit or engine oil incorrectly.

Andrew Pearce, the Environment Agency’s area manager for Kent and East Sussex, said: “Individuals and small businesses can be tempted to cut corners, thinking it won’t make any difference.

“But there’s a culture and once you have one person acting irresponsibly, the problem can soon multiply.”

Roger Gale, MP for North Thanet, and Dr Stephen Ladyman, the MP for South Thanet, both attended a meeting with the Environment Agency on Friday.

The Environment Agency said that potentially hazardous chemicals such as white spirit, paintstripper and pesticides should be taken to Kent County Council’s civic amenity site at Richborough for safe disposal.

The waste recycling centre at Margate is unable to accept chemicals or pesticides.

Residents were also urged to report spills or incidents immediately by calling the Environment Agency’s special hotline on 0800 80 70 60.

For full story, see the Thanet Extra, out now.