River Spodden pollution incident update

River Spodden and the blue liquid

The Environment Agency has just released an update regarding the release of a large quantity of vivid blue liquid into the River Spodden in June 2006. This came from a discharge from the former Turner brothers Asbestos factory site.  

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: "We are now at the stage of concluding our investigations into this pollution incident. Since the incident occurred six months ago we have interviewed witnesses and carried out investigations on site to establish the source of the dye.

“Whilst it caused the water to turn blue temporarily, the dye hasn't had any permanent impact upon the actual ecology of the watercourse. Once our enquiries have come to an end we will determine the appropriate action to take against those responsible for the pollution."

Save Spodden Valley campaign co-ordinator Jason Addy welcomed the Environment Agency’s statement: “The fact that the Environment Agency is taking the issue of pollution in the River Spodden seriously is to be welcomed. This is a watercourse that has improved in quality dramatically in recent years. It is becoming a valuable asset for public amenity and wildlife as a green corridor running through the North West’s towns and cities all the way to the Irish Sea.  

“The independent Atkins Report highlighted serious concerns about known asbestos dumps close to the Spodden’s banks. Documents now held with the Environment Agency show that sewer pipes from the Turners factory once discharged asbestos slurry and other production chemicals directly into the river”.