AN investigation is underway after a stream mysteriously turned a deep shape of murky turquoise.

The bizarre colouration of the stream in Gunners Park, Shoebury, was reported to Essex Wildlife Trust by concerned members of the public earlier this week.

A member of the nature reserve team visited the site on Tuesday, and reported the “unnatural colour” was likely due to discharge or run off “further up the Shoe river”.

Images taken of the water show a murky shade of turquoise.

Wildlife, such as ducks, can still be seen swimming in the water, although the trust has issued a warning to walkers to keep their dogs out of the water until the investigation identifies the issue.

“This certainly looks like some type of discharge or run-off further up the Shoe river, which has filtered down into the park,” a spokesman for the trust said.

“Until this is resolved please keep dogs out of the ditch.”

The trust indications suggest the colouration may be caused by a discharge near Shoebury Park Way.

It added that early indications suggested birdlife and other wildlife had been unaffected by the issue.

The Environment Agency has been informed of the issue and says it is working with Anglian Water to investigate the reports.

The Government agency stressed it did not see any indication of “environmental impacts” at this time.

Anglian Water teams are on site, working with the agency to determine the cause of the colouration.

A spokesman for the firm said: “Anglian Water is working in close partnership with the Environment Agency to determine what is happening and it is too early to give specific details.  

“There is early indication of no risk or harm to the environment.”

Residents have reported seeing similar colouration in water near New Barge Pier Road.

A spokesperson for the Environment Agency said: “The Environment Agency has been liaising with Anglian Water who are investigating these reports. There is no indication of any local environmental impacts at this time.

“Environmental incidents can be reported to the incident hotline on 0800 80 70 60. ”