An update has been issued after people reported feeling unwell after a “strong odour” prompted an investigation at a Welsh beauty spot. The smell was noticed by walkers at Fendrod Lake in Swansea on Saturday, December 28.
After visiting the area at around 4pm people described experiencing dizziness, sore throats, sharp pains, and headaches. One walker, who wished to remain anonymous, said the odour smelt like “paint thinner”. She said the strongest smell came from near the lock bridge. For the latest Swansea news sign up to our newsletter here.
Firefighters referred the incident to Natural Resources Wales (NRW). The agency Wales issued an update on Monday saying the pollution had stopped but their investigations would continue. They added there appeared to be no impact to fish or other wildlife in the area.
Ioan Williams, operations manager for NRW, said: “The pollution at Fendrod Lake, Swansea, has now stopped but our officers continue to investigate into the cause of the pollution. Oil pad and booms deployed on Sunday have successfully absorbed some of the pollutant and although some of the oily substance has settled on the banks of the lake there is no evidence of impact to fish or other aquatic wildlife.
“These absorbents will be removed later on Monday ahead of the predicted heavy rainfall.” They are also encouraging any further signs of pollution to be reported to their incidents line on 0300 065 300.