Thousands of fish have perished in a significant pollution incident affecting the River Pool in Bromley, the Environment Agency (EA) has confirmed. The deceased fish, discovered last weekend, include critically endangered European eels, along with sticklebacks, gudgeon, stone loach, and larger coarse fish such as chub, roach, and dace. The precise cause of the pollution remains under investigation by both the EA and Thames Water.
The affected waterway stretches approximately three kilometres, commencing from Cator Park and extending downstream to its junction with the River Ravensbourne. Environment officers from the EA are actively monitoring water quality, collecting samples, and evaluating the risk of further fish mortalities. Simultaneously, the agency's fisheries team is undertaking an assessment to determine the full extent of the impact on the river's wildlife population.
The European eel, a species once prevalent in the River Thames and historically used in dishes like eel pies and jellied eels, is now classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Its juvenile populations, known as glass eels, have experienced a drastic decline of up to 95% since the 1980s, making this incident particularly concerning for conservation efforts.
Thames Water, responsible for the local drainage network, stated that it is "urgently investigating the pollution incident" and has deployed aeration equipment at key points along the River Pool. This measure aims to increase dissolved oxygen levels in the water, a common response to mitigate the effects of certain types of pollution and help protect remaining aquatic life. A spokesperson for Thames Water acknowledged the public's concerns and confirmed that tests are currently being conducted.
Councillor Steven Jefferies, representing Beckenham Town and Copers Cope, commended the swift response from the Environment Agency to what he described as a "tragic incident." He emphasised the vital role that Beckenham's rivers play in supporting local biodiversity and contributing to the health and wellbeing of residents within the community. While the incident has not affected public drinking water supplies, the EA has advised the public and their animals to avoid the contaminated stretch of the river for the time being.