Woodstock, New Brunswick — A Tim Hortons location on Beardsley Road remains shuttered following a diesel fuel leak that originated from the neighboring Murray’s Irving gas station.
The incident has sparked health and environmental concerns, leaving local residents seeking answers about the potential impact on their community.
Timeline of the Incident
The issue first came to light in late November 2024, when residents began noticing unusual fuel odors and tastes in beverages from the Tim Hortons location. Subsequent investigations revealed that the source of the contamination was a diesel fuel leak at the nearby gas station.
Environmental services were promptly deployed to address the situation. Crews have been working tirelessly to remediate the site, with pump trucks operating continuously to extract fuel from the affected area.
Impact on Local Businesses and Residents
Residents have voiced frustration and are demanding answers about how the leak occurred and why it took so long to address the contamination. As a result of the leak, the Tim Hortons location was forced to close temporarily. While the gas station has since reopened, the coffee shop remains out of operation. A reopening date has been set for May 29, 2025, but the prolonged closure has raised concerns among residents and business owners about the economic toll.
“We rely on this Tim Hortons as a community hub,” said one local resident. “It’s unsettling not knowing the full extent of the damage.”
Health and Safety Measures
Officials have assured the public that steps are being taken to mitigate risks and address concerns. According to provincial authorities, there is no immediate threat to human health. However, further testing and monitoring will continue to ensure the safety of the area’s water supply and soil.
“We are working closely with environmental experts to ensure that all remediation efforts meet the highest standards,” said a spokesperson for Murray’s Irving gas station. “We deeply regret any inconvenience caused and remain committed to the community.”
Looking Ahead
The incident has prompted calls for greater oversight of fuel storage systems and stricter regulations to prevent future leaks. Local leaders are urging businesses to conduct regular inspections, and residents are calling for transparency in the investigation to understand the root cause of the incident and to ensure accountability. and implement advanced monitoring technologies to detect issues before they escalate.
Meanwhile, residents and environmental advocates are keeping a close eye on the cleanup efforts. The Tim Hortons location’s planned reopening in May is seen as a key milestone, signaling a return to normalcy for the community.
For now, the focus remains on remediation and ensuring that Woodstock’s residents can enjoy a safe and clean environment once again.
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