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River Pool Fish Kill Mystery: Pollution Suspected
3 Jul
Summary
- Mass fish deaths discovered in Bromley's River Pool last weekend.
- Environment Agency and Thames Water investigate possible pollution.
- Critically endangered European eels were among the victims.
A significant pollution incident has resulted in a large number of fish deaths in the River Pool, a waterway in Bromley. The Environment Agency and Thames Water are currently investigating the cause of this event, which was discovered last weekend.
Dead fish, including critically endangered European eels, sticklebacks, gudgeon, and stone loach, were found along approximately 3km of the river, from Cator Park to its confluence with the River Ravensbourne. Larger coarse fish such as chub, roach, and dace were also affected.
The European eel is classified as critically endangered, with significant declines in juvenile populations. The Environment Agency is continuing to monitor water quality and assess the full impact on the river's wildlife. Thames Water has implemented aeration measures to improve oxygen levels.
While the incident has not impacted public drinking water supplies, the public and their animals have been advised to avoid the affected stretch of the river. The investigation into the source and nature of the pollution is ongoing.