An estimated 100,000 litres of oily-water mix has now been recovered from the Perenco oil pipeline leak of reservoir fluids under Ower Bay, Poole Harbour in Dorset.
CONTAINMENT
Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), which is leading the clean-up operation, added that a cofferdam had now been constructed and excavation of the oil pipe was due to start today, weather permitting.
“An estimated two tons of contaminated sediment has been recovered to the waster reception facility on the Port Estate,” said the trust’s chief executive Jim Stewart.
“Flushing and skimming operations continue daily in Ower Bay.
“Despite the overnight rain the containment measures in place are proving very successful.”
CONTAMINATION
He added that Perenco had confirmed that the source of the leak was shut down and pressure removed at the time of the spillage.
“There is product in the immediate area around the leak source and some oil remains within the contaminated area.
“Whilst some contaminated oil remains in the pipe, Perenco have taken mitigation measures to minimise the risk of further oil going into Poole Harbour.”
WARNINGS
A NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) restriction is in place in Poole Harbour until 9 April.
The UK Health Security Agency continues to advise people to avoid using the beaches and water in the Poole Harbour area.