Following a release of approximately 500 barrels of oil from a pipeline between Conwy (North Wales) and Douglas (Isle of Man), on Monday 14th February small tar balls have today (Wednesday 16th February) been spotted on Central Beach between North Pier & Central Pier. A spokesperson for Blackpool Council has said, ‘Due to tidal conditions and a forecast of extreme weather conditions over the next few days, there is a possibility of more washing up. Our beaches will mostly be chained off due to high tides and storm force winds during this time, and we ask that people avoid these stretches to avoid any contact. Do not attempt to remove any tar ball deposits. Instead, please call 01253 477600 to report any suspected incidents.’
The pipeline is run by the oil company Eni who today (Wednesday 16th February) confirmed they were aware of a number of small tar balls washing up on a section of the Blackpool coast and said, ‘The clean-up teams are onsite and working closely with the local authorities and coastguard.’
Featured photograph courtesy of Blackpool Council
