An update on the sampling: the first round of water quality testing results have come back from the lab. They indicate extremely high levels of suspended solids in the polluted area of the Oxford Canal, and increased levels in both phosphorous and orthophosphates. There are low levels of ammonia and regular levels of biological oxygen demand, revealing that the pollution is not organic, highly likely ruling out farm effluent or waste.

Further investigation is needed to find the cause. The next steps we are undertaking is to test for hydrocarbons and heavy metals, which could reveal it is possible highways discharge.

Our environmental team is awaiting the results from the laboratory to understand what the polluted substance is.

As soon as we receive further information we will update this notice.

Please be advised that our environmental teams are investigating reports of pollution, stretching up to a kilometre in distance, from Bridge 24 Nettehill Bridge, Coventry, near to the M6 motorway.