Eruption of raw sewage on nature trail

A FIVE-FOOT high "eruption of raw sewage" has angered residents of Park Avenue in Barnstaple who are now calling on the authorities to take action.

A sewage pipe, which has a manhole cover access point in Anchor Wood near Sticklepath, shot a "torrent of used sanitary towels, human waste and toilet paper" into the air last Saturday.

The blast was so high that it left remains hanging from the branches of nearby trees — something nearby residents have branded "disgusting".

Remnants from the overflow can also be found spilling on to the plains by the Taw estuary as well as on a nearby path which is used regularly by children at local schools as a nature trail.

Jacqui Henderson of nearby Park Avenue says the problem started more than 12 years ago but has got a lot worse recently.

She said: "Every time it rains heavily the manhole literally erupts.

"It happens at least once a month and makes one hell of a noise.

"One lady I know was unfortunate enough to be walking past when it erupted and was showered with sewage.

"Quite frankly we are fed up with it now and want the relevant authority to take action."

Above: An earlier eruption from the manhole cover. Residents say the problem is now a lot worse.

Lilian Hughes, also of Park Avenue, has also had enough of the problem.

She said: "I can't believe nothing has been done to prevent this yet — surely it is a massive environmental hazard.

"There is also pressure for more housing development in this area. If extra houses feed into this pipe the problem will get much worse."

Bickington and Roundswell district councillor Rodney Cann added: "It's disgusting and has gone on for too long now. It's a blight on an otherwise woodland area."

Andrew Millie, environmental protection and emergency planning manager at North Devon Council, said: "The environmental health team are keeping a constant eye on the situation to ensure there are no public health issues.

"We have also alerted the Environment Agency as well as South West Water (SWW) who have appointed consultants to look into the problem."

Hannah Smith, spokesman for South West Water, said: "We are aware of the sewage problems at Anchor Wood.

"We have secured funding to look at the problem and that work is due to begin shortly.

"We anticipate that the results of this investigation will be available towards the end of February."