An environmental watchdog has launched a probe into reports of sanitary products among other detritus found in the polluted waterways of an Aberdeen park.
SEPA, Scottish Water and NHS Grampian have now all examined the ponds of Westburn Park following complaints from residents.
There were increasing calls for action to be taken several weeks ago due to a build-up of silt and litter causing pungent odours.
Government watchdog poised to investigate ‘awful’ pollution in Aberdeen park
The Press and Journal reported at the time that the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) may have to be drafted in following scores of complaints about the stench from the water.
On May 10 the council said they would begin a clean-up and “did not require a SEPA permit”.
However, SEPA became involved after receiving complaints with concerns about medical waste potentially being in the water.
It is now understood that items such as rubber gloves and sanitary products have been found in the park which is a popular place for families to visit.
But a spokesman for Scottish Water said that no medical waste had been discovered – with an NHS source confirming that ARI has strict procedures for disposal.
It is understood that a specialist waste officer from NHS Grampian is also investigating the pollution.
Other water courses around the city run into the ponds in Westburn Park.
A SEPA spokesman said: “SEPA officers were contacted by Aberdeen City Council regarding reports of medical waste being found in the ponds in Westburn Park. SEPA officers are investigating the reports and working with Scottish Water to identify possible sources.”
A Scottish Water spokesman said: “Scottish Water’s sewer response team have been called to attend this location twice in the last week after reports of debris being found.
“On each visit they found a significant amount of wipes and sanitary products.
“No medical waste was found among the debris.
“A full clean-up of the area has been carried out on each occasion.
“The items that were discovered are all things which should not be disposed of down toilets and drains. Every year there are around 37,000 blocked drains and sewers across Scotland, which can cause flooding and pollute rivers, burns and coastal waters.”
Rosemount and Midstocket councillor Bill Cormie, who first raised concerns, said the ponds were at one stage cleaned out on a weekly basis.
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “Council officers spoke to SEPA and agreed a process ahead of the recent clean up of the park. We will continue to involve them in all we do at the park ponds. There is no evidence that there is medical waste at Westburn Park at this time.”
