Pet pollution warning in park
DOG walkers are being warned to keep their pets away from the water in Jesmond Dene after a pollution incident.
Large quantities of foam were seen floating in the Ouseburn, prompting the Environment Agency to launch an investigation.
The river, which flows through the dene into the Tyne via the Ouseburn area, was given an unnaturally blue tinge by the contamination.
According to the Environment Agency, there doesn’t appear to be a lasting ecological impact.
However, dog owners are being warned that they should take extra precautions.
Tests have been carried out but the source of the pollution has not been identified.
An Environment Agency spokesperson said: ‘’Following reports made by the public regarding possible contamination of the Ouseburn river, Environment Agency officers have been on site with Northumbrian Water, to conduct an investigation and take water samples.
“The Ouseburn was polluted by what appears to be a detergentlike substance, but as our checks have shown there is no continuing input, it has not been possible to trace the source.
“We found no evidence of ecological impact. “However, Northumbrian Water will test the water samples and Newcastle City Council has advised the public to prevent their pets from entering the water until further notice, as a precaution.
“The Environment Agency relies on the public to report new incidents which allows us to take steps to investigate and help protect the environment.”
The Ouseburn was polluted by what appears to be a detergent-like substance
Environment Agency spokesperson