Toxic chemical spillage – 12 August 2024

We have been notified by the Environment Agency of a toxic chemical spillage in Pleck, Walsall.

This spillage, which was discovered earlier today (12.08.24) has gone directly into a stretch of the canal from Spinks Bridge, Walsall down to Birchills Street Bridge.

There is a potential serious risk to health if you or your pets are exposed (direct physical contact with the water) in the affected stretch of the canal.

Access to the area of the canal in the immediate area is being closed and the affected stretch of the canal has been contained to reduce the harm to wildlife and the wider waterway.

The public are asked to avoid the canal and its towpaths in the affected area.

Anyone who has been exposed (direct physical contact) along the affected stretch of canal water and is feeling unwell, should seek health advice via 111 or 999 in an emergency.

If you have taken any fish from the canal, please do not eat it. If you have concerns around the disposal of animals or fish, please contact the Environment Agency 24hr helpline 0800 807060.

Drinking water will not be affected by this incident.

Ends

Background notes to editors

This is a multi-agency response including:

• Environment Agency
• UKHSA
• Walsall and Sandwell councils
• WM Police
• WM Fire
• WMAS
• Canal and Rivers Trust
• Severn Trent Water

Next update will be provided by 4pm 13.08.2024.

For updates, please visit/ follow Walsall Council and Sandwell Council newsroom and social media channels.