Hopefully we are going to see an improvement on the River Aire

On Thursday 13th October 2005 I met Paul Tullett head of the EA in the north east, I was quite impressed with him. I got the impression he is determined to find the cause of the problem. As he told me "It could be a broken sewer pipe or some other cause". He couldn't do anything until he knows what is causing the problem. If he sanctioned something which wasn't the cause of the problem, it would be public money that was wasted.I went along with that as it made a lot of sense.

What also impressed me was when he noticed globules of oil coming to the surface where the pipe discharges. He immediately said "That's probably coming from some road works where they are using tarmac. He was spot on. It was certainly a very worthwhile meeting.

As one who spends a lot of time on the river Aire doing habitat work, invertebrate counts, opening up the gravel runs by raking off the blanket and clodorpha weed so the trout can spawn and the aquatic life can survive. I feel we will see an improvement in the effluent problem I will keep you all informed though this site.

Today Friday 14th October 2005 I had this E-mail from Paul Tullett

Dear Mr James Further to our meeting on site yesterday, I thought it would be worthwhile just to reiterate and give you assurance that we are dealing with this pollution issue.

We are currently in contact with the Highways Department of the Local Authority, not only with regard to the problems of drainage from the road, but also how to take care in their repair operations to prevent pollution. Additionally, we are continuing our investigations to ascertain the source/sources of the pollution into the river and once we have done so, we will get remediation action put in place.

As an interim measure, I have asked for some works in the river to be undertaken to ensure that there is a sufficient water flow to disperse and dilute any residual pollution.

Regards Paul Tullett Ridings Area Manager Environment Agency, NE Region