Natural Resources Wales investigates "unacceptable" pollution spills in the River Kenfig
Investigations underway following sewage discharge incidents
Natural Resources Wales is investigating several pollution incidents impacting the River Kenfig in Bridgend.
The issues relate to infrastructure at Marlas Sewage Pumping Station (SPS) near North Cornelly, and an assaociated rising main operated by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water.
Spanning approximately 9km, the pipeline has experienced multiple bursts since August 2023.
NRW officers have been collecting evidence onsite.
The situation apparently escalated in February when a continuous discharge occurred, prompting Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water to commission a temporary sewage treatment plant at the site.
NRW's Head of Operations South West Wales, Huwel Manley, emphasised the seriousness of the situation and assured ongoing monitoring:
“This issue is extremely serious. The scale of environmental impact on the River Kenfig is unacceptable, and we understand the concern and frustration this has caused for local communities, as well as the damage to wildlife and the wider environment, including Kenfig National Nature Reserve.
“We are undertaking detailed investigations into these incidents and will take the appropriate action in line with our Enforcement and Sanctions Policy.
“During our formal investigations we are unable to provide detailed information, as disclosure at this stage could risk prejudicing any enforcement outcome.
“But we want people to be assured that we are closely monitoring the situation as we build our case. Our officers are attending the site regularly to undertake important monitoring work, to continually assess the environmental impact and are ensuring DCWW delivers the necessary improvements.
“We have informed DCWW that we expect them to undertake remedial work to clean up affected stretches of the River Kenfig along with a plan for longer term enhancement of the river and its biodiversity.
“We are also keeping the local community and partners informed, and will continue to do so via our dedicated incident webpage as more information becomes available.”
Marlas SPS operates under specific permit conditions, allowing sewage discharges under certain circumstances.