Dredging for cyanide underway in toxic Walsall Canal

Dredging has finally commenced following a catastrophic pollution incident in August 2024.

Approximately 4,000 litres of contaminant, including highly toxic sodium cyanide and zinc cyanide, were released into the Walsall Canal. Consequently, a one-mile stretch of the canal in the Pleck area of Walsall has been closed to boats for the past eight months, rendering it devoid of wildlife.

The company responsible for the pollution is currently under investigation by the Environment Agency.

The ongoing dredging operation aims to remove cyanide-contaminated silt from the canal bed, a process expected to last several weeks. Following the dredging, both the sediment and water will undergo testing to determine if further actions are necessary and when the canal can be reopened. This critical step is essential for the canal’s ecological recovery and is mandated by the Environment Agency, marking a significant milestone towards restoring the waterway for boat traffic.

Henriette Breukelaar, regional director of Canal & River Trust, expressed her satisfaction with the commencement of dredging operations: “We’re delighted that dredging of the Walsall Canal starts this week; this is a major milestone in the canal’s recovery.”

“So far, we have spent around half a million pounds of charitable funds, covering costs such as staff time, dam installation, materials, contractors, and lab testing. This is a huge resource that has been diverted from other essential activity to keep the region’s canals open and safe.”

She also acknowledged the support received from partners and the public, particularly those who contributed to the Crowdfunder, which raised £25,000 to aid in the canal’s restoration efforts.

Addressing the impact of the canal closure on the local community, Breukelaar stated, “We understand the closure has been frustrating for boaters and the local community, and we hope the dredging will move us closer to reopening the canal. We will continue to provide updates as our priority remains the safety and restoration of this important waterway.”

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