An estimated 140,000 litres of oily-water mix and more than five tons of contaminated beach/soil material and contaminated materials have been recovered from the spillage from the Perenco-operated pipeline under Ower Bay in Poole.
OPERATIONS
Poole Harbour Commissioners (PHC), leading the clean-up operations, added that a cofferdam at the leakage site had been constructed, the pipeline sealed and that pipeline excavation work continued.
“Flushing and skimming operations continue non-stop in Ower Bay,” said PHC chief executive Jim Stewart.
“The containment measures involving 11 booms are proving successful.
“The main focus of clean up operations is at Ower Bay, however substantial clean up is also taking place at the Goathorn and Arne peninsulas.”
PHC is working closely with the Standing Environment Group (SEG), involving Environment Agency and Natural England.
WILDLIFE
Mr Stewart added that approximately 30 “slightly oiled” birds had been seen but no serious casualties.
PHC is unaware of any other affected wildlife while the RSPCA and RSPB is dealing with any such issues.
Previous advice to people and restrictions in the area remain in place.