WARD 64 councillor Norman Gilbert has raised concerns about the ongoing environmental hazard affecting the Seaview, Montclair, and surrounding communities.

Over the past three weeks, an unknown company has allegedly been dumping a yellow chemical substance along Seaward Road in Seaview, over a stretch of approximately 400m.

“Additional dumping has been identified in Unit Avenue in Coedmore, adjacent to the local soccer field, as well as along South Coast Road heading toward Bayhead. These incidents point to a deliberate and repeated act of environmental pollution,” said Gilbert.

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He said the substance poses a significant danger.

“According to the fire department, it likely contains an element of phosphorus, as it is prone to spontaneous combustion. The material ignites without warning, producing a distinctive blue flame, often only visible at night, and emits a dense, highly noxious smoke. During the day, the fires are not always visible, increasing the risk to unsuspecting residents,” said Gilbert.

He also raised concerns about the environmental damage that is already severe. To read previous articles on this story, click here. 

Trees show signs of chemical burn in Montclair and surroundings

“Vegetation in the affected areas has been extensively harmed, with trees and bushes showing signs of chemical burn; leaves have turned brown and died off. More concerning, however, is the impact on nearby residential areas in Montclair and Seaview,” he said.

According to Gilbert, some residents have reported:

• Respiratory distress,
• Burning eyes in some cases,

He said some members of the public have been forced to temporarily evacuate their homes.

“There have also been reports of pets falling ill, including vomiting after exposure to the toxic fumes,” said Gilbert.

Despite this being reported immediately when the first dumping occurred almost three weeks ago, he said the response from municipal environmental and health authorities has been inadequate.

“While the fire department must be commended for their exceptional responsiveness having attended the site on more than 15 occasions to suppress flare-ups, the hazardous material itself remains on site.
“At present, the municipality has indicated that it is still unable to confirm the exact composition of the substance or determine the appropriate method for safe removal. Interim measures, such as covering the chemical with sand, have proven ineffective, as the material continues to reignite sporadically,” he said.

He added that the prolonged exposure of residents to a potentially toxic and flammable substance represents a failure in environmental management and public health protection. A co-ordinated and decisive response is required.

“I am therefore calling on City management, as well as the Departments of Health, Environmental Services, and Solid Waste to urgently collaborate and implement a clear action plan to safely remove and dispose of this hazardous material. Furthermore, there must be accountability for those responsible for the illegal dumping,” said Gilbert.

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