SOIL close to a Glasgow burn polluted with a cancer causing chemical will be tested for contamination following a backlash from local residents.

It comes after a public meeting on Thursday when concern was raised that the chemical hexavalent chromium, which had been found in Polmadie burn in Oatlands, may have spread to a nearby playground and private gardens.

The council insisted contamination of nearby soil was “unlikely” but said it would go away to see if testing could be done.

READ MORE: Polmadie chemical leak: Locals say they do not feel safe

Now chief executive Annemarie O’Donnell has confirmed to councillors that tests will be carried out on soil samples from the play area, allotments and three gardens.

The move is aimed at providing reassurance to residents.

The Herald:

A council spokeswoman said: “To reassure residents and the local community it’s been agreed that soil samples will be carried out.”

READ MORE: Toxic land poses 'immediate and long-term risk to public health'​

Residents said they were concerned as the burn runs close to a children’s play park and vegetable allotments.

Chromium, which turned the burn luminous green in January, is known to increase the risk of lung cancer and asthma, as well as kidney and liver problems.