Urgent! – Keep a keen eye on the canal

A factory in Wednesfield was evacuated yesterday the 14th January after a tank holding more than 30,000 litres of corrosive acid collapsed.

Emergency services rushed to the scene at the scene at Watery Lane Industrial Estate

Around 40 staff were evacuated from Edward Howell Galvanizers on Watery Lane Industrial Estate as a result of the hydrochloric acid spill.

Twenty firefighters, paramedics, Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water staff are all dealing with the incident. The tank contained an estimated 35,000 litres of diluted hydrochloric acid and collapsed at around 8.45am this morning.

The Environmental Agency are taking a lead on this and they have been active in trying to deal with the spill, as has Severn Trent Water Authority. Emma Reynolds MP is also keenly involved.

Councillor Phil Bateman said today “I am very concerned that some of that spillage may find its way into the Wyrley & Essington canal. I know that CRT are out and about looking and inspecting the canal.

I am aware that the Environmental Agency are adding lime to neutralise the surrounding water courses. My hope is that the spill and run off is of sufficient distance from the canal so the pathway for the acid is either stopped or blocked. CRT staff tell me that they feel the only potential would be through the feeders. I just hope everyone will Wednesfield Canal 002smalland its water for any fish in distress (or dead). Please if you see any signs like this an urgent call to CRT and the EA is a must!”

Phil Bateman

Phil Bateman is Married to Mary and lives in Wednesfield North. He was a long serving local politician having served previously on the now defunct West Midlands County Council... read more

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