The appearance of this substance comes at a time when other areas of Barry are already facing scrutiny due to high pollution levels in the water.
Earlier this month, it was announced that Watch House Bay would be part of a Natural Resources Wales programme that would aim to uncover the causes behind the pollution that classifies the bathing spot as ‘poor’.
Though the Waterfront is not a designated bathing spot and is not part of the bathing water monitoring programme, it doesn’t mean that locals are any less concerned by the mystery substance, which many believe is “raw sewage”.
One local told the Barry and District News that “kids were running from the smell” and “complaining about it.”
This incident has concerned residents further, after plans for a water sports centre and more housing near the site have moved a step closer – meaning that more kayakers and water sports enthusiasts could frequent this area in the future.
Dwr Cymru (Welsh Water) said: “We have investigated this issue and there is no evidence of any sewage spill or leak and all our assets in the area are operating as they should.”
They said that they have passed on their findings to Natural Resources Wales.
A spokesperson from Natural Resources Wales said: “We received a report of suspected pollution in Barry waterfront on July 20.
“Following an initial assessment, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water attended the location at our request and carried out an investigation.
“The investigation found no evidence of sewage pollution or any issues with nearby wastewater assets.”
They believe that, based on the findings of their investigation, the brown foam and water discolouration that many locals saw were caused by algae that was affected by recent hot weather, rather than a pollution incident.
They continued: “As a precaution, we always advise people to be aware of the potential risks associated with entering natural watercourses.
“Waterways can contain bacteria and other contaminants from a range of sources that are not always visible.
“Barry waterfront is not a designated bathing water and is not part of the bathing water monitoring programme.
“Public health matters, including advice on illness and infection risks, are led by Public Health Wales.”
Suspected pollution incidents can be reported to NRW via their 24/7 incident line on 0300 065 3000 or online.
