People and communities
Update - Toxic chemical spillage - Wednesday 2 October 2024
Published on
Walsall Council continues to work closely with partners on the canal pollution incident.
FAQs have now been updated on the council website with the latest information.
https://go.walsall.gov.uk/newsroom/toxic-chemical-spill-walsall-faqs
A section of canal towpath in Walsall, which has been closed since a toxic chemical spillage was found on Monday 12 August 2024, is to reopen this week.
This means from Thursday 3 October 2024 the towpath through Pleck will re-open for public use.
The priority continues to be the safety of residents and canal users and some restrictions around the canal remain in place.
Regular lab testing by the Environment Agency has shown that pollution levels within the canal water have dropped to an acceptable level. However, the public should continue to avoid any contact with the water. Pets should be kept out of the water and all fishing activity, including magnet fishing, should not take place as this may disturb sediment in the canal which is likely to still be contaminated.
Navigation along the canal will, for the foreseeable future, remain closed. Again, this is to avoid disturbing silt on the bed of the canal.
Clear signage is in place to ensure the public is aware of the current position.
“ It’s a relief that we’re now in a position to announce the re-opening of the last kilometre of canal towpath.
“I’d like to thank residents for their patience and understanding throughout this time. Now the pollution levels in the water have reduced over the last few weeks, attention moves to focus on efforts to recover the canal and its wildlife.
“It is, however, vitally important for everyone to follow the guidance issued, namely keeping out of the water and avoiding activities such as fishing.
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“ We are continuing our sediment and water sampling of the canal and then carrying out tests. Moving forward, a full plan to remedy the damage that has been done is being finalised and we are looking at the next steps. “
“ We’d like to thank partners and the wider public for their support following this upsetting pollution event. The work to restore the canal back to its former glory will continue.
"We need to ensure any contamination in the silt on the canal bed is resolved before navigation can be resumed and the biodiversity and wildlife can be restored. This is all part of the long road of recovery as we look to reinstate this magnificent linear park for both people and nature. “
The Environment Agency is leading the investigation into this pollution incident. The source of the spillage was identified last month as Anochrome Ltd.
Although risks are low, anyone who has been exposed (direct physical contact with canal water) and is feeling unwell, should seek health advice via 111 or 999 in an emergency.
Ends
Notes to editors:
FAQs can be found at: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/newsroom/toxic-chemical-spill-walsall-faqs
Background
This is a multi-agency response including:
• Environment Agency
• UKHSA
• Walsall, Birmingham, Dudley and Sandwell Councils
• WM Police
• WM Fire
• WMAS
• Canal & River Trust
• Severn Trent Water
• NHS
