The Helensburgh mother, who does not wish to be named, has lived in the Parkes Street area for over a decade and is one of several residents with serious health issues.

They now have fears that historic contamination at a nearby site may have contributed to their conditions.

Read more: Wollongong council knew of Helensburgh site’s chemical history

‘’There’s so many unexplained illnesses on our street – it can’t just be a coincidence,’’ she said.

‘’Thankfully my brain tumour was benign but in the street we’ve had three brain cancers and one brain cyst plus several cancers associated with hormonal issues.

‘’It’s been horrendous for me but I consider myself one of the lucky ones as it was removed last year and I can continue on.

‘’One month after my operation another lady passed away from a brain tumour, and a close friend of mine a few doors down just had a tumour removed and is having chemotherapy. You have to fear for your children.’’

She said residents started sharing stories last month, after noticing a ‘’pungent’’ odour coming from the site when construction began.

‘’The putrid smell emanating from the site was to the point we could not open our doors and windows,’’ she said. ‘’People were experiencing extreme coughing, eyes running, sneezing – like an allergic reaction.

‘’Neighbours tell me it was the same smell that came from the site back in 2002, which the council was made aware of.’’

She called on Wollongong council to take action. ‘’We want the site to be cleared so that it’s safe, so we don’t have to fear our children playing in the street.’’