Following reports about oil spillages on the River Forth and Firth of Forth from a number of sources, including members of the public, bridge maintenance staff and its appearance on CCTV footage taken from the Forth Road Bridge, Fife Council requested Forth Ports to activate the Clearwater Forth Oil Spill Contingency Plan.

Inquiries indicated that minor oil deposits were to be found on the shoreline and it was felt necessary to activate procedures that would enable the source, extent and impact of the spillage to be determined, which would normally be assessed by an aircraft flying over the area

An approach was made on Monday, by Fife Council to Forth Ports, who have responsibility for activating emergency oil pollution procedures. However, they did not feel it was appropriate, at that point in time, to instigate the oil spill contingency plan.

However, following further representations to the Maritime and Coastguard Agency by Fife Council an overflight was agreed. The aircraft's aerial photographs showed three large patches of oil/sheen at the following locations which confirmed Fife Council's concerns:

a)      Between the Bridges, Hound Point Marine Terminal and the Firth of Forth towards Inchcolm

b)      The north bank of the Forth close to the Rosyth Naval Base and mid channel abeam

c)      The area abeam the Ineos Oil Refinery Grangemouth.

The Council has subsequently, activated a number of procedures to safeguard Fife's shoreline including daily shoreline checks by environmental officers. SEPA are also taking samples.

Another overflight is expected today, 5 July, to monitor the situation. In the meantime, the Council will be providing advice notices at beaches to the public restricting certain activities.

As Dr Bob McLellan, Depute Head of Pollution Response said: "We are disappointed that Forth Ports have not activated the oil spill contingency plan. However, we are working closely with them and other agencies to manage the situation effectively.

" I am confident that at this point in time there is no significant risk, on the shoreline, to the public or wildlife. But I would stress that the Council is on stand by to respond to any change in the situation."