AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after an old mine system polluted a watercourse that led to a Prestatyn beach.

Natural Resources Wales (NRW) said specialist contractors have been appointed to remove what is thought to be red diesel from the ‘Prestatyn gutter’, which runs from Meliden to Barkby Beach.

The environmental agency said observations following the incident, which was reported just over two weeks ago, suggest the environmental impacts are minimal and the discharge from the mine is now clear of oil contamination.

Rhys Ellis, environment team leader for NRW, said: “Protecting Wales’ environment and wildlife is a huge part of the work we do which is why we are contactable 24/7 in case there’s an incident we need to attend.

“Our officers are regularly monitoring the situation at Prestatyn Gutter and we’re working hard to investigate the source further. We will now work with the contractors to reduce any further impacts in the area.”

Prestatyn North county councillor Paul Penlington and environmental campaigners criticised NRW for a “lacklustre” response to the spill which he said continued for several days before action was taken.

NRW said its officers “moved swiftly” to place booms and absorbent materials in the watercourse.

The watercourse runs close to the sand dunes between Barkby Beach and Talacre, which is a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) with protected sand lizards and Natterjack toads.

Anyone with information related to the incident can contact NRW by calling 0300 065 3000 if you have any information that might assist us with our investigation.