Walsall toxic chemical spill: Investigation continues as part of canal remains closed months later

Walsall Council declared a major incident as more than eight agencies jumped into action to contain the toxic chemicals and protect the local wildlife.

Following a preliminary investigation, Walsall-based metal finishing company, Anochrome Ltd, was identified as the source of the spill, with a wider investigation quickly being launched by the EA.

Now, the EA has confirmed that the investigation into Anochrome Ltd and the events surrounding the incident is 'ongoing', while reiterating that 'pollution of this kind is unacceptable'.

A spokesperson for the EA said: "We are undertaking a thorough investigation into the serious chemical spill incident in Walsall and our enquiries are proceeding. Pollution of this kind is unacceptable and the impact on wildlife and the environment can be severe.

"We are unable to provide further comment in case it prejudices any future legal proceedings."

The event saw the closure of more than 12 miles of canal system, with residents living near the canal reporting seeing 'hundreds' of dead fish floating on the surface.

Walsall Council has confirmed that a 'short section' of the canal, near where the incident first happened, still remains closed.

A Walsall Council spokesperson said: "We can confirm that there has been no recent change - there is still a short section of the canal closed closest to where the spillage happened."

Shortly after the leak, Anochrome Ltd said that its immediate response was to contact the council and environment officials. The company also said that it had made all its facilities available to authorities.