The company involved in the leak reports that it has been contained, but a thorough investigation will be conducted. However, environmental groups assert that the incident could have severe repercussions for the region.
After an oil spill prompted a significant incident alert, people have been warned to avoid the water and beaches surrounding Poole Harbour.
Sunday’s release of approximately 200 barrels of reservoir fluid was caused by a conduit operated by the gas company Perenco.
By Sunday evening, the firm had contained the “small” leak and recovered part of it.
Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC) stated they believe the “surface slick” is already dispersing, although an assessment is scheduled for today.
The UK Health Security Agency and PHC warned against swimming in the harbour and surrounding area.
The fluid, which is 85 percent water and 15 percent oil, should be washed off immediately.
According to the town’s tourism agency, Poole is Europe’s largest natural harbor and a nature conservation site, and some environmental groups claim the incident will have a “devastating impact.”
The spill originated from the Wytch Farm oil field in Dorset, but the affected pipeline was immediately shut down and booms were placed along its sides in an attempt to contain it.
The site manager for Perenco, Franck Dy, stated, “Any spill is an extremely serious matter, and a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine what occurred in Poole Harbour.”
“It’s important to note that fluid discharge has stopped and the spill is being contained.”
“Several local agencies” are monitoring the event, and Dorset Police advised against swimming “until further notice.”
Council leader Philip Broadhead said officials were in touch with “various parties” but that the leak was contained.
Sir Robert Syms and Richard Drax will ask the government an urgent spill question in the House of Commons.
“While the extent of the damage is still unknown,” said Alice Harrison, leader of fossil fuels advocacy group Global Witness. This spill will devastate Dorset’s people and environment.”
