
A wider area in the west of Jersey is affected by PFAS contamination that had been thought.
Environmental consultants have found the so-called 'forever chemicals' in water catchments around St Ouen's Bay and Pont Marquet.
A survey report by Arcadis says higher levels of PFAS are in ground and surface water over 'a bigger area near the airport than previously understood.'
The chemicals used to be found in airport firefighting foam during the 1990s, which had made the area a 'hotspot' for higher levels in groundwater and surface water.
The findings of the independent hydrogeological survey were presented to people in the affected area last night, (1 May) and the government has said it will announce next month what the remediation options are.
It says there is “no immediate risk to the health of the broader population” and the public water supply meets EU and UK standards
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of over 12,000 man-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in everyday products.
They don't break down easily, and some types of PFAs have been linked to health risks.
Arcadis says it could take up to 60 years for levels to reduce if no action is taken.
Environment Minister Deputy Steve Luce said: “I want to thank Arcadis for this detailed and thorough report, which will help us chart the best way forward.
“PFAS is not just in Jersey, it’s everywhere. But we’re coming up with scientific, evidence-based solutions to deal with it. There are only a few other jurisdictions around the world who are doing as much as we are.
“We are following the evolving science.
"We commissioned this report to give us a better understanding of where PFAS is and what we can do about it. It is a detailed report on a complex matter and its findings deserve proper consideration.
"I will carefully review it and respond more fully, with details of how we plan to move forwards, on 12th June.”