Pollution leak is blamed for wiping out stream wildlife

An ecology study conducted by the Environment Agency has found no evidence of wildlife along a 330-yard stretch of the beck in Scarborough.

Protective booms have been placed along the watercourse to prevent the spread of the pollution and the agency confirmed yesterday that a major clean-up operation is being launched.

Residents complained last week about a stench emanating from the watercourse, which is next to the Weaponness Valley coach park.

The Environment Agency confirmed the stretch of the beck is “devoid of life” following the pollution. Officials who were at the site on Monday only discovered several dead snails.

Wildlife which would be expected to be found there include worms, fresh water scrimps and mayfly larvae.

Scarborough Borough Council stressed there is no direct risk to public health, but urged residents to avoid the beck until the clean-up operation is completed.

The agency has joined forces with Yorkshire Water to pinpoint the pollution’s source, although it is understood the leak is linked to work which is being carried near the coach park.

Contractors have moved on to the former gas works land at the rear of the coach park, earmarked as the site of a new council depot.

Preparatory work is being carried out on behalf of the current owners of the land, the Skipton Building Society, before the council acquires the site.