The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency are examining a waterway in Musselburgh after a concerned East Lothian resident captured images and footage of what he suspects to be pollution.
Chris London, who is a resident in the local area, grew concerned after he passed the waterway whilst out walking and noticed a strong stench as well as discolouring in the water.
The waterway is located off of Ravensheugh Road just on the outskirts of the East Lothian town.
In the images shared with Edinburgh Live, an orange decay can be seen in the water and on several objects.
Chris said that there is every chance that the decay is from iron ochre but he also claimed that there was a methane-like smell in the air.
Chris said: “The orange staining I think is from iron ochre, which is not harmful to animals or humans, but the water discharge I suspect to be acidic.
"I have noticed signs of badgers and foxes as well as a wide variety of birds drinking from this water. My suspicion is that methane gas is being discharged too, as there is an awful smell at the end of the pipe.
“I spent a bit more time there today while getting the photos and footage. I can say I don't feel at all well. My stomach is quite upset now.
"As can be seen, there is quite a flow from the pipe. Where is this water going? From what I can tell it heads underground across Ravensheugh Rd and through a pipeline under one of the old ash disposal areas in Musselburgh lagoons.
“From there it is likely to be discharged into the Forth but I will have to check for an outlet at low tide.
“In some pictures you can see the level the burn rises to in periods of heavy rain and groundwater runoff. You can see staining levels on the wall above the culvert, and staining on items away from the burn too such as the bread crate and tyre.”
The photographer's images show a pipe that feeds into the local waterway that is popular with local wildlife.
A spokesperson for SEPA said: “SEPA has received reports of orange discolouration and odour in a watercourse near Ravensheugh Road in Musselburgh, and we are in contact with partners to investigate the source.”
“Anyone with concerns should contact us via our 24-hour online form at www.sepa.org.uk/report.”
