Residents in Threlkeld are invited to a public event to learn more about efforts to clean up rivers polluted by abandoned lead mines in the area. The Coal Authority and Environment Agency will be providing updates on a proposed mine water treatment scheme at Threlkeld Village Hall on Tuesday 14 May.
Recent monitoring by the Environment Agency has shown elevated levels of metals like cadmium, zinc, and iron flowing out of the Woodend Low Level Adit, polluting 25km of watercourse from Gategill Beck to Bassenthwaite Lake. This pollution negatively impacts fish and aquatic life in the area.
The proposed mine water treatment scheme aims to capture these metals before they enter the watercourse, improving water quality and benefiting local wildlife. This project is part of the Water and Abandoned Metal Mines (WAMM) programme, a partnership between the Environment Agency, Coal Authority, and Defra.
Hugh Potter from the Environment Agency emphasized the importance of community involvement in developing these plans to tackle pollution from the abandoned mines. The project aims to significantly decrease current pollution levels and improve the health of local rivers for future generations.
Mark Stacey from the Coal Authority sees this project as the next stage in the life of the mine, offering an opportunity for the community to address the impacts of historical mining and set an example for other communities facing similar challenges.
The project team is currently seeking feedback on the proposals and will keep the community updated on progress. The event is open to all residents, with a focus on engaging the community in the cleanup efforts for the benefit of future generations.
