Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service Newsdesk

Wheal Jane Mine, Carnon Valley, Baldhu at 30/11/2012 13:00

On the evening of the 28th, Fire Service assistance was requested at the decommissioned Wheal Jane Mine in the Carnon Valley. The on-site pumping equipment was struggling to cope with the higher than average level of the water table. The Fire Service was asked to help pump water from an addit into a dam to alleviate potential flooding and contamination into the Carnon Valley. The Service has a High Volume Pump on site and operations are ongoing. Levels are being monitored by the Enviroment Agency who are working with the Coal Board and plant operators on a range of possible mitigation measures. Other bodies assisting include the Public Health and Protection Agency and the Maritime Services who are working with the local oyster fishermen.

A further high volume pump has been requested from the National Co-Ordination Cente in London, who will assign the resource and proceed to get it mobile to the incident also a High Volume Pump Advisor has been requested to attend.

All further Press enquiries should be directed to the Enviroment Agency and Coal Authority who are the lead communications authorities.