Restrictions Still in Place at Hanson’s Bay as Testing Continues

Authorities have confirmed that the ban on fishing, harvesting seafood, and recreational use of Hanson’s Bay remains in effect while water quality assessments are ongoing.

Deputy Director of the National Office of Disaster Services (NODS), Craig Cole, said the measures will not be lifted until comprehensive laboratory testing is completed by the Government Analytical Unit at Dunbars.

The restrictions were introduced nearly two weeks ago after an oily film was detected on the surface of the water near Pearns Point. The report prompted the activation of the National Marine Pollution Committee, which moved swiftly to contain and address the issue.

Investigations traced the problem to pollutants escaping from the nearby Cooks Landfill into the bay.

According to Cole, corrective action has already been taken on land to prevent a recurrence. Barriers have been installed to stop further leakage, and adjustments were made to create a new discharge area for sewage waste.

“Significant work has been carried out on the landside to prevent a similar incident in the near future,” Cole explained. “However, before any decision is made to lift the restrictions, we must await the final results of the water tests.”

Although the National Marine Pollution Committee has since been deactivated, several key agencies continue to monitor conditions at the site. These include the Ministry of Health, the National Solid Waste Management Authority, the Fisheries Division, and the Department of Environment.

Officials say once testing is complete, attention will turn to evaluating any potential long-term environmental consequences. Areas of concern include the mangrove ecosystem, surrounding vegetation, fish populations, and other marine life within Hanson’s Bay.

Residents are being urged to continue observing the restrictions until further notice.