I have recently been contacted by SEPA in relation to contamination in the Glengonnar and Wanlock Waters near Leadhills.
A recent survey conducted by SEPA into metal concentrations in the water and surrounding soil revealed the presence of lead, cadmium, and zinc linked to former mining activity in the area.
An information leaflet and letter produced by SEPA, Local Authorities and NHS Boards has been distributed to residents in the Leadhills and Wanlockhead area providing further detail of the risks.
The information confirms that the risk to health for local residents coming into contact with the water and living in the area is considered to be low and that simple precautions can reduce the risk still further. Importantly, it is also confirmed that the public water supply is not affected.
Reports of water contamination have the potential to cause public concern so I welcome the actions of SEPA, local authorities and health boards to ensure that the public are provided with detailed information about these findings.
I hope that people will take the time to read the information as it arrives at their homes and that they will follow the precautions identified, particularly in relation to food hygiene.
I have written to SEPA to ask to be kept updated with the ongoing investigation into this issue and to seek further information on what action it is taking to improve the water quality in the area.
These findings are a timely reminder of the impact that mining activity can have on the local watercourses and should act as a cautionary tale to developers wishing to operate in the area of the need to ensure a robust approach to address key environmental concerns.
