Fish found dead in river following Synthite fire in Mold

Emergency services were called to the incident at the chemical plant on Denbigh Road in Mold on Tuesday afternoon.

There were multiple explosions and people living nearby are being urged to keep windows and doors closed.

The fire service remains in attendance, and a stretch of the A541 Denbigh Road near the site remains closed. Flintshire Council has said there is no indication yet as to when the road will likely reopen.

The deceased fish in the river. (Image: UGC)

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service issued an update on Wednesday night (May 1) warning people to avoid the river. 

Mike Plant, from NWFRS, said: “Natural Resources Wales’ officers remain on site as part of the on-going operation and will continue to monitor the local water courses and take any necessary action to mitigate any impacts.

“As a precaution, they are asking people not to go near the River Alyn and to also keep animals away from the water. People are also asked to keep away from the cordoned area as firefighting continues on site.”

Following the incident on Tuesday, several dead fish have been spotted in the river, with concerns being raised about the safety of the water. 

In a statement by Natural Resources Wales, Lyndsey Rawlinson said: “The multi-agency approach continues as we monitor and try to minimise the impact on the community and environment. Officers remain on site as part of the on-going operation.

“We can confirm that around 50 dead fish have been found. Further samples will now be taken from around the site and further downstream to be analysed.

“We will take any necessary action needed to identify and mitigate any impacts downstream.

“As a precaution, we’re asking people not to go near the River Alyn and to also keep animals away from the water.

“Multi agencies will continue to work together to minimise the impact on the community and environment.”

MOST READ:

• GoSafe responds to claims its mobile speed camera was in 'unfair' location
• Major Wrexham Industrial Estate expansion backed for approval
• 'Bully' licensee strangled partner at pub they ran after money row, court told

One local resident, who wished to remain anonymous said: "I think that it's an absolute shambles to be honest.

"The river is polluted to the extent that it's killing the fish and heaven knows what else, the cows in the fields drink that water, people walking their dogs let them in that river.

"That factory is dangerous and should not be next to a water source."