Large overground sewage pipe in Canvey residential area an "unsightly" mess according to locals
The temporary pipe is near Lakeside path on Canvey Island
Sewage works on an Essex island are “blocking” pavements and are an “unsightly” mess, according to fed-up locals.
Sewage works near Lakeside Path on Canvey Island include large ‘above-ground’ pipes and areas blocked off by fencing, which have become a frustration for local residents who say “nothing has been done” at the site in months.
In particular, disabled and elderly residents have slammed Anglian Water, which is carrying out the work, for blocking the pavements, making getting around much harder for them.
Anglian Water has apologised for any inconvenience caused by the “essential” works.
Brenda Williams, 78, said: “It’s such a mess. I really hope we get this sorted out in the coming days, but I am not holding my breath. It’s been like this for about three months now, and it’s not acceptable.
“The fences are not secure and fall down, blocking the pavement for wheelchair users. It’s also affecting parents with children in buggies too.”
Images shared with the Local Democracy Reporting Service show various lengths of fencing lying on the ground.
A large black metal pipe that stretches for metres is above the ground.
Another resident, aged 71, added: “I go past this often and no work is being done at all. When it rains, the area is just mud. We need a reason and a time when it will be finished.
“Everyone is fed up with this, as it looks like such a bad mess.” Island councillors also joined the discussion on social media, pledging to nudge the water firm.
An Anglian Water spokesman added: “A sewer pipe at Southwalters requires repair, and while we schedule the repair, we have set up a temporary overland pipe system so that the damaged sewer pipe doesn’t cause flooding to homes and gardens or pollute the environment.”
The water firm also thanked the local community for their patience and understanding.