A PROBE into whether the eviction of the Dale Farm traveller site last year exposed pollution has yet to conclude.

Environment Agency officials were asked to investigate the state of the land at Oak lane in Crays Hill amid claims from traveller campaigners the operation last October had exposed oil and asbestos which were a health hazard.

The agency earlier said it would release findings of the investigation at the end of October.

However, it is still analysing a report of the findings after specialists took a series of samples from the rubble mounds left by Basildon Council’s bailiffs to prevent the illegal pitches being reoccupied.

An agency spokeswoman said: “The Environment Agency’s investigation into allegations of contamination at the Dale Farm traveller site has taken a step forward with completion of an assessment by consultants.

“A large number of soil samples were taken at the site and examined by consultants to see whether or not a range of contaminants may be present. These results have been assessed and an extensive technical report has been produced.

“The agency is now considering this report and will then decide whether to take any action.”