Harbour experiences two fuel spills within a single day

Weymouth Harbour recently encountered two separate fuel leaks on the same day, adding to a season already marked by several minor spills. Harbour staff quickly contained both incidents, activating the contingency plan in response.

The first leak, on 18 November, occurred at a newly installed fuel facility, which has been taken out of service pending repairs. The second incident happened during the final testing of the new fuel pontoon's payment system, when an underwater pipe malfunctioned, releasing diesel into the water.

Dorset Council's harbours manager, Ed Carter, praised the team's swift action to prevent the fuel from spreading. Harbour personnel deployed a double-ring boom to control the leaks effectively.

Carter confirmed the fuel pontoon will remain inactive until all necessary repairs are completed, with a status update expected early next year. In both cases, the amount of diesel released was minimal, described by committee chairman Councillor Rob Hughes as "a few litres rather than tens of litres."

Earlier in the summer, the harbour also saw several minor unexplained spills near the Commercial Road pontoons. Investigations later identified a vessel with engine issues during cold starts as the source. That vessel has since left for winter maintenance.

Author: Maya Henderson