Councils combine to form Collaborative Working Group to investigate

Crustacean Deaths

Following the mass deaths of crustaceans off the Cleveland coast much public concern was expressed and many questions raised. Despite the matter being raised in the House and a special sitting of a Select Committee no generally accepted reason has yet been offered.

The algal bloom conclusion reached by DEFRA has been consistently challenged by lay and academic voice.

The DEFRA investigations concluded in March 2022 and the debate has continued since then.

In July 2022 a motion, jointly prepared by Councillor Thomson from Saltburn, was tabled at Redcar & Cleveland Council stating that the closing of investigation by DEFRA was premature and that Tees Valley local authorities should work together to encourage the preparation of a new independent report.

This request has finally been implemented with the establishment of a joint working group which met for the first time on the 6th of January.

Councillor representatives from all four authorities, Redcar & Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Stockton-onTees and Hartlepool convened to agree Terms of Reference and how this body could actively engage with key players in a resolute attempt to bring greater clarity to a complex situation and hopefully contribute to the finding of agreed solutions.

The need for progress was highlighted and the body will meet monthly initially with a full review in 6 months. Councillor Philip Thomson from Saltburn Ward was elected Chair and Councillor Rachel Creevy from Hartlepool, Vice Chair.