Source of contamination of Porthkerry streams located

3 July 2012

Streams in Porthkerry Park, Barry were recently found to be contaminated. The source of the pollution has been located and measures are being put in place to stop further pollution. However the public are still being advised to stay out of the streams.

The Vale of Glamorgan Council, Environment Agency Wales and Dwr Cymru Welsh Water are continuing to work together to check the sources of sewage contamination of the Cwm Barri and Nant Talwg streams.

Welsh Water and the Vale of Glamorgan carried out dye tracing and camera surveys, which have identified a number of defects in the sewer, which has allowed foul water to escape into surface water drains. 

Action is being taken to stop the pollution from the sources identified, and work is continuing to prevent a reoccurrence.  Further investigations, including camera surveys, are being undertaken to identify any other sources of contamination. 

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is still advising visitors not to bathe, paddle in the stream, or use it for any other recreational purpose.  It is still not advisable to allow dogs to enter the stream.

Rachelle Trubey, Environment Agency Wales, said: “While it’s good news that we have found some sewer defects, we have not yet completely stopped the pollution.

“We are continuing to work closely with the Vale of Glamorgan Council and Dwr Cymru Welsh Water to find and tackle the other sources of pollution.”