Oil Contamination

21 November 2023 at 17:46:11

The Comhairle has been liaising with the Coastguard and other agencies over oil deposits appearing at various locations at the coastline between Swordale Beach and Holm on the Isle of Lewis. Since initial reports of small oil globules on 20th November, HM Coastguard and the Comhairle have been monitoring the area. Following foot patrols only very small quantities have been found at sporadic locations.

Given the small quantities and the sporadic spread over a large shoreline there is no current planned activity other than continued monitoring. Please report any sightings to the Coastguard Stornoway station on 01851 702013.

Contact with the oil globules could cause skin problems and swallowing the oil may cause serious health effects.

It is a sensible precaution for you, your children and your animals to avoid contact with any areas of the beach affected by the oil.