Hazardous chemicals spread to other navigations

AS WE foretold yesterday, Tuesday, the hazardous chemicals have now spread from the Walsall Canal.

With Canal & River Trust stating the chemicals are affecting boating on Walsall Flight, Ryders Green Flight, Rushall Flight and Perry Barr Flight, Keith Gudgin reports.

Closed to navigation

All are now closed to navigation and the towpaths also closed for fear of spreading the chemicals. Boaters stuck on any of the affected waterways are asked to contact 0303 040 4040.

Anyone who has been in contact with the canal water and is feeling unwell, should seek health advice via 111 or 999 in an emergency.

The Environment Agency is establishing a sampling and testing programme, and the trust is hoping to reduce  the affected area as soon as possible.

Why booms were not immediately used in an effort to stop the spread is not known. Neither is it told why flights alone are stated as closed but not the waterways.