Walsall, UK – Authorities have confirmed the source of a toxic chemical spill affecting a 12-mile stretch of canals in the West Midlands. Sodium cyanide, a hazardous chemical known for its severe health risks, was identified as the substance that contaminated the waterway in Walsall on Tuesday.
The chemical spill has led to an urgent public warning, with residents advised to avoid a long section of the canal network and towpaths extending from the middle of Walsall to Birmingham, including areas in Wednesbury, Tipton, and West Bromwich. Sodium cyanide, which can cause symptoms such as seizures, vomiting, and loss of consciousness, poses a significant threat to public health.
Walsall Council has confirmed that the source of the spillage has been located and neutralized, but investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing. Interim Director of Public Health, Nadia Inglis, stated, “We are proceeding cautiously but as quickly as possible. Our primary aim is to ensure public safety and to protect health and wellbeing.”
The spill has had a considerable impact on local wildlife and canal users. Environmental experts have warned of the severe consequences for aquatic life, with dead fish already observed in the affected canals. Dr. Delia Garratt, Chief Executive of Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust, highlighted the environmental damage and called for stricter enforcement of pollution regulations.
Boater Daisy Hampshire, a regular user of the canals, expressed her frustration and sadness over the incident. “It’s part of our heritage,” she said. “It’s been here for 200 years, and it’s still here after 200 years. We will start again as a community.”
Bruce and Lauris Crook, boaters from New Zealand, have been unable to navigate through the locks at Rushall since the spill. Mr. Crook said, “We registered with the Canal and River Trust as an interested party and are waiting for updates on when the canal will be safe for navigation again.”
Council Leader Garry Perry has promised to provide regular updates as the situation evolves. The exclusion zone currently covers the area from the Walsall lock flight to the lock flights at Rushall/Ryders Green in Walsall and Perry Barr in Birmingham.
The council has advised anyone who may have come into contact with the contaminated water and feels unwell to seek medical advice through the NHS 111 service or call 999 in an emergency.
Sodium cyanide is used in various industrial processes, including metal cleaning and extraction. It is a white, crystal-like solid with a faint almond odor and can be fatal if ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin.
As the cleanup continues, local authorities remain focused on testing and assessing the contamination to ensure the safety of the canal network and the wellbeing of the community.