The Press and Journal (Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire)
‘Stink like an open sewer’ as new pollution fouls ponds
Environment: One source cleaned up but water at park remains fetid
A second source of pollution has been identified at a north-east park which one resident claims has been allowed to become an “open sewer”.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (Sepa) identified and remedied the initial cause of the sewage which created a stink in the streams and ponds at Westhill’s Denman Park.
Dark, frothy water had been seen running from the burn into Arnhall Moss Pond, but Sepa discovered the water was being discoloured by a blockage in
“It reminds me of when I lived in Jakarta where they have got open drains”
the local sewer system, and thought the contamination had stopped.
However, a new source of pollution has now been detected.
Westhill man Colin Rawlinson, 65, uses the park for his daily runs and the businessman and former oil and gas recruiter expressed anger at the continuing problems.
He said: “It is my favourite local walking place. But it still stinks and it is so bad that you even struggle to run around the park.
“It is a pity because you see lots of people walking to the pond, but nobody stays very long.
“It is still giving off a stench. It has definitely put me off. It reminds me of when I lived in Jakarta where they have got the open drains, and the stench of human waste will never leave me.
“It just spoils the experience of walking in a beautiful place.”
The neighbouring Westhill Shopping Centre is believed to be the origin of the pollution.
A Sepa spokesman said: “Our initial investigation in June identified that a blockage in the sewerage system was impacting on the water quality in the Denman Park ponds.
“Remedial works were undertaken by a drainage company and follow-up samples taken by Sepa appeared to show the source of the pollution had stopped.
“Unfortunately, further reports (of impacts to the ponds) have confirmed there may be an additional source of pollution.
“Sepa have been working closely with Scottish Water and a nearby commercial premises to identify the second source and ensure that remedial works are undertaken without delay.
“Sepa will also be following up this incident with all parties involved to ensure a system is put in place to prevent a recurrence.”
However, Aberdeenshire Council has maintained the burn is not within its remit.
The local authority’s environmental health manager, David Cooper, said: “We are aware of water quality concerns at Arnhall Moss Pond and are working with Sepa and Scottish Water as they investigate the cause.
“As a precaution, we have put up signs around the pond warning visitors not to enter the water while the investigations continue.”