HARBOUR bosses are “desperately working” to determine the cause of a drastic change in colour to the water – after tests ruled out sewage.

Investigations are being carried out to identify the source of pollution entering Whitehaven Harbour via a culvert in Queens Dock, which has turned the water brown. 

Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners have been left frustrated by the problem, which is now “looking the worst it ever has”.

The Environment Agency found some increased metals in water samples taken from the harbour last month but a potential source is yet to be found.

John Baker, CEO of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, said: “It seemed to run clearer during the Christmas period but since the New Year, it’s got worse again.

“We are desperately working with the relevant organisations to try and find out what the root cause is.

“It’s very frustrating for us and Whitehaven Marina because we’re at the end of this. Someone else is polluting the harbour. The water is coming in from the culvert in Queens Dock.

“No one is taking responsibility for that and we are just the end user with the pollution coming in.

“We are imploring the relevant organisations to help find what the root cause is so that something can be done about it.

“We’re not any nearer to identifying what the source is. There are lots of theories but nothing concrete in any of that until somebody can be accountable for it.

“There’s no doubt it has got bad again. We are frustrated on behalf of the public, the people who are using the harbour and the berth holders. We are doing all we can to resolve this.”

An Environment Agency spokesperson said: “Analysis of water samples from Whitehaven Harbour taken in December found no evidence of sewage pollution.

“The results did show some increased metals in the water and we are actively investigating this further to determine the potential source.”

People can report environmental concerns to the Environment Agency on 0800 807060. 

READ MORE: Tests carried out after water in Whitehaven harbour turns brown