THE Environment Agency is investigating a pollution of a beck that’s covered in foam most mornings.
The problem was first discovered in Percy Beck, near Barnard Castle, by walkers in Flatts Wood about six weeks ago.
Ian Graystone, says the pollution is at its worst at about 8am. He added: “This pollution is first noticeable from an area of the beck below Bouch Way but becomes even more so as the beck falls more steeply.
“Other people I have spoken to have suggested that they have seen detergent bubbles in the gutter from Woodside wood entrance.
“I strongly suspect that someone has plumbed a new bathroom or en suite shower into the surface water drains rather than the sewer drains.
“I have already informed Durham County Council, and water board vans and staff have been seen on Woodside in the evening.”
Northumbrian Water confirmed that its officers had visited the beck and confirmed that there is a problem.
A spokesperson said: “We are aware of the concerns raised by a local resident about the appearance of a soap-like substance in Percy Beck, Barnard Castle.
“We have carried out a full investigation and can confirm that this is not related to any of our assets or operations.
“Our investigation report is now being passed to the Environment Agency.”
The agency said it had received reports of pollution in the waterway and were trying to locate the source.
A spokesperson said: “We do not believe that these incidents are having an adverse effect on water quality or affecting wildlife.
“We would ask anyone who has any information as to the potential source or observes any further incidents of pollution to report it to us on our incident hotline 0800 807060.”
