DANGEROUS levels of a toxic chemical linked to cancer have been detected in a Glasgow waterway.

Inspectors from the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) have sealed off the Polmadie burn, which runs through Richmond Park in the south of the city, after tests revealed high concentrations of hexavalent chromium in the water.

Local residents had raised the alarm after noticing the water had become "luminous green" in late January.

Decontamination has been ongoing in the area for years to rid it of potentially hazardous industrial chromium left behind in the ground by the former J&J Chemical Works, which closed in 1967.

Exposure to hexavalent chromium is known increase the risk of lung cancer, asthma, kidney and liver problems and irritates skin and eyes.

Temporary 'Heras' metal fencing has now been erected around the burn following warnings from environmental health officers that the site posed a potential risk to public health.

It is understood that Avant Homes, who are currently constructing a major housing development in Richmond, plan to install a permanent fence.

A spokeswoman for Glasgow City Council said: “Following a site visit last week and confirmation about the temporary high concentration of hexavalent chromium in the Polmadie Burn, Heras fencing has been put in place to restrict public access and there is an agreed proposal to temporarily increase the flow of the burn, in a controlled way, to dilute the level of chromium.”

A spokesman for Oatlands Community Council, which represents residents in the area, said: “The community council are aware of the ongoing issues with the Polmadie Burn, all relevant authorities have been informed, including Sepa and Glasgow City Council.

"Our intention is to work closely with these parties to ensure there is no risk to public health, and this will be discussed further at our meeting tonight, Monday 18th. We would hope Glasgow City Council and Sepa will continue to engage with us and provide further actions/plans.”