I would like to clarify the progress of the recent environmental studies conducted on properties near Sankey Bridges, following the article, Clean-up of arsenic on council house land to begin, Guardian, February 22.

There are two phases. Phase one involves 28 properties, mainly on Broadhurst Avenue and Roughley Avenue, along with two properties at Rostherne Close. The two Rostherne Close properties have been assessed and don't require any clean-up works following careful research and a change in Government guidance.

The remaining 26 properties will be cleaned up in full consultation. A letter has already been sent to these properties.

The council has assessed whether the phase one residents need to contribute towards the clean-up costs as set out by the Government. I can confirm that all 28 residents have been informed that they do not need to contribute.

Phase two involves 234 properties in Evelyn Street, the rest of Rostherne Close, some properties on Old Liverpool Road and Hesketh Street North. All properties in the study area have been sent a letter. The project is still in its early stages and we are considering the site in more detail.

The council is committed to putting residents first, and they have been fully updated during this scheme.

We are working in partnership with the Health Protection Agency and the Warrington Primary Care Trust to make swift progress and provide reassurance for people regarding their properties.

We have set up an information line on 443245 and residents are encouraged to contact us directly if they have any queries.

Tommy Wallace Head of Housing, Community and Protection