Raw Sewage left in Knighton Street for 10 days (Kirsty Williams AM )

Cymraeg
English

Kirsty Williams AM <info@kirstywilliams.org.uk>

Raw Sewage left in Knighton Street for 10 days

March 13, 2009 12:00 AM

Powys representatives Kirsty Williams AM and Cllr Ken Harris have expressed their horror at reports of raw sewage being left unattended for 10 days in Rockes Meadow, Knighton.

Following complaints by a local resident, the Lib Dem representatives for the area have made representations to Powys County Council and Severn Trent Water calling for an investigation into this unacceptable situation and for action to prevent any recurrence.

Kirsty Williams, AM for Brecon and Radnorshire, said: "I am shocked that this dangerous incident has occurred and particularly that nothing was done for such a significant period of time.

"It is completely unacceptable for the safety and comfort of Rockes Meadow residents for raw sewage be left running through the street for 1 day let alone 10.

"There have been repeat problems in this area for many years and it is time that Severn Trent look at options, including the adoption of the Sewer, to ensure that an improved system and repair service is put in place. I have therefore written to Severn Trent calling for both an investigation into how this incident was able to occur and for an upgrade of the sewage system in Knighton."

Knighton Councillor Ken Harris said: "The problems with the sewers in Rockes Meadow and the Dingle stem back many years to when the site first started to be developed and the developers installed a pitch fibre system which Water Companies are reluctant to adopt. Many sewers run through people's gardens and this is another excuse given by Water Companies to avoid adoption.

"Although they demand the same amount of money from us all, whether or not we are on an adopted system or not, these Water Companies argue that we are only paying for when the sewage reaches their treatment plants. How it gets there, is not their concern.

"I urge Severn Trent Water to properly assess the system in this area and other parts of Knighton and if they are not prepared to adopt then formulate a scheme to develop a new adoptable system. I am continually chasing the company to deal with similar spillages to this recent one and am extremely worried at the health implications if the present situation is not rectified.

"Knighton is expanding in terms of Housing and deserves an up-to-date 21st Century sewer system."