Creosote Identified as Cause of Northumberland Beach Pollution

Residents are being advised to avoid bathing at Blyth South Beach in Northumberland after investigations confirmed the presence of creosote, a toxic substance used in timber treatment. The pollution was first reported in August, prompting an initial warning for the public not to swim in the area due to reports of an oil-like sheen and a strong fuel odor.

Northumberland County Council stated that laboratory tests identified the substance as creosote. Investigations point to a former timber treatment works, which operated on land adjacent to the beach until approximately 1980, as the likely source. The council, in collaboration with the Environment Agency (EA) and Port of Blyth, is working on a response to the ongoing pollution incident.

Restrictions currently remain in place on the stretch of land between Blyth West Pier and the Dave Stephens Centre. An EA investigation has determined that the pollution is contained in a specific area of the beach near a landmark known as the Hole in the Wall. The creosote is seeping into the sand via contaminated groundwater.

While the council has assessed the public health risk as low, they are urging beachgoers to keep dogs away from the affected area and to avoid direct contact with the water and sand. The timeline for the clean-up operation is not yet known, but it has been described as a substantial undertaking.