Seven-year-old Zane Gbangbola died in the early hours of 8 February 2014, during catastrophic River Thames flooding at Chertsey in Surrey.
Floodwater passing through a nearby historic landfill site conducted hydrogen cyanide gas (HCN) into Zane’s home, where it was later detected at high levels by Surrey Fire and Rescue Services. Zane’s father was left paralysed, with a medical diagnosis of HCN poisoning.
A 2010 ‘desktop study’ report on this landfill, commissioned by the Environment Agency in relation to a planning application, confirms that the local authority knew then that the land potentially posed a ‘high risk to life’. Yet they did nothing to warn residents, either before, during or after the 2014 flooding. And to this day, they have adamantly refused to fully test the land, which has flooded catastrophically again this year.
We believe a cover-up has been perpetrated by authorities and government to keep the lid on the truth about these shocking events – and on the danger faced by many other households.
It’s time for Zane’s Law
‘Zane’s Law’ proposes measures to address the crisis of contaminated land in the UK, prioritising the protection and safety of people and planet, and the human right to a healthy environment above all other considerations.
“Zane’s name is forever etched within our hearts.His life was stolen when a deadly menace invaded his home.Zane’s Law is a commitment to the wellbeing of our families, our neighbours,and our future generations.”
Zane’s parents, Kye and Nicole
It’s time for Zane’s Law
‘Zane’s Law’ proposes first measures to address the crisis of contaminated land in the UK, prioritising the protection and safety of people and planet, and the human right to a healthy environment above all other considerations.
