4000 Litres of oil leaked from a Croydon bus depot into River Wandle, posing threat to local wildlife.
The oil spill has harmed local wildlife. This occurred at a bus depot in Croydon, impacting the revived chalk stream where brown trout and kingfishers live. People witnessed oil-covered birds struggling to clean themselves, and teams are now trying to help, concerned about lasting damage to the river.
The River Wandle may be affected from Beddington to Wandsworth, as the leak appears to originate from a tank at a depot in Thornton Heath. The Environment Agency is actively gathering facts and assessing the environmental damage. They are working alongside the fire brigade to stop the leak.
Merton Council reports that the spill has severely impacted Watermeads Nature Reserve in Mitcham. Many animals there have already been harmed by the oil. The London Fire Brigade is rapidly containing the oil, while firefighters are removing pollutants. This information was shared by a local councillor representing the Colliers Wood ward.
Thames Water is assisting in the river cleanup, and people are advised to avoid the polluted water. Merton Council urges residents to protect their pets and to refrain from feeding the wildlife on the river.
The Wandle had been heavily polluted for years due to industry but now features walking trails, as people are working to restore it. The river is now home to brown trout, kingfishers, damselflies, and bats, supporting important native wildlife.
Chalk streams constitute rare habitats, predominantly found in England. These streams face threats from climate change, pollution, and the impact of farming and sewage.
A local MP, Bobby Dean, commented on the spill, stating it should not have occurred. He seeks answers, a thorough cleanup, and measures to prevent similar spills in the future. A report indicates that Thames Water might postpone protecting the river until 2035, although they might act sooner, in 2027, after assessing the river’s needs.