Radioactive substances found on Dalgety Bay beach will continue to be monitored, it has been stressed.
The Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) has met the Dalgety Bay Forum to provide an update on progress made at the beach, and its investigation of radioactive particles recovered by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The MoD team committed to a further programme of monitoring and recovery work this year, while SEPA is planning to undertake work on the headland at Dalgety Bay, which may be one possible source of contamination.
Particles were first found on the beach more than 20 years ago and various surveys since then have found traces of radioactive debris on the beach, in gardens and at the sailing club.
It is widely thought the particles came from paint used on luminous dials on aircraft active during the second world war at nearby Donibristle airfield.
Former prime minister and local MP Gordon Brown criticised the MoD, claiming they should be more “proactive” regarding the radiation at Dalgety Bay.
He has since written to defence secretary Liam Fox on the matter.
Last night SEPA said it welcomed the MoD’s commitment to further work, which it claims will provide a reduction in the potential hazard at Dalgety Bay in the meantime.’Radiological hazards’Dr James Gemmill, SEPA’s radioactive substances unit manager, said, “Dalgety Bay has been identified as a priority for assessment by SEPA, as reports have shown there are continuing high activity radiological hazards present on the beach.
“SEPA is working with the MoD to develop a plan to determine the source of the contamination together with further assessment of any particles that may be recovered in 2011.
“This will provide information on any changes in the number, activity and hazard posed by this contamination.
“SEPA will continue to work with the members of the Dalgety Bay Forum, and to keep them fully informed while this work is ongoing.”
An MoD spokesperson added, “The MoD continues to support SEPA and the Dalgety Bay Forum to resolve these issues.
“Work undertaken so far to reduce the potential hazard represents the MOD’s serious commitment to assist the Dalgety Bay Forum and local community in finding a longer-term strategy for dealing with the contamination at the foreshore.”
Local beach signs are being reviewed but will remain to warn people of the hazards and urge them not to take home mementos.