Concerns have been raised after photos emerged showing a brown foam in Barry waterfront. Photos shared online show what some first thought was a large area of sewage in the water near the new housing development, not far from the seafront, on Monday, June 20.
With the school holidays getting underway and the water feeding directly into the sea, locals had voiced concerns about the nature of the brown appearance of the water and the safety of swimming in the sea.
No evidence of sewage pollution
However, Natural Resources Wales said there was no evidence of any sewage pollution but instead said they believed the brown foam was a result of algae which had been affected by the hot weather.
They added that the waterfront is not designated for bathing and said people needed to be aware of the possible risks which could come with entering natural watercourses.
A spokesperson from Welsh Water said: "We have investigated this issue and there is no evidence of any sewage spill or leak and all our assets in the area are operating as they should. We will pass on our findings to Natural Resources Wales."
Algal bloom a natural occurrence
Associate British Ports also manage part of the waterways in the area. They said they were aware of the discolouration and said it had been found to be algal bloom.
A spokesperson said: "Algal blooms are a natural occurrence and have been reported in a number of locations across the UK during the current warm weather. We continue to monitor the situation and are liaising with relevant partners."
A spokesperson from Natural Resources Wales said: "We received a report of suspected pollution in Barry waterfront on 20th July. Following an initial assessment, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water attended the location at our request and carried out an investigation. The investigation found no evidence of sewage pollution or any issues with nearby wastewater assets.
"Based on the findings of the investigation, we believe the brown foam and water discolouration were caused by algae affected by the recent hot weather, rather than by a pollution incident.
"As a precaution, we always advise people to be aware of the potential risks associated with entering natural watercourses. Waterways can contain bacteria and other contaminants from a range of sources that are not always visible. Barry waterfront is not a designated bathing water and is not part of the bathing water monitoring programme. Public health matters, including advice on illness and infection risks, are led by Public Health Wales."
Suspected pollution incidents can be reported to NRW via their 24/7 incident line 0300 065 3000 or online.
