Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – A persistent sewage leak near a Croydon station is raising concerns among residents, who claim it’s creating a health hazard impacting the area’s image.
The leak, which originates from a manhole cover, is located at the head of the alley that is frequently utilized by locals and commuters to the neighboring Norwood Junction station.
The leak has been a recurring problem for at least the past two years, as the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) is aware. Because of the “putrid” stench emanating from the alley below, one homeowner of the apartments above the leak informed the LDRS they haven’t opened their window in years.
Labour Councillor Christopher Herman claims that a disagreement over accountability between Thames Water, Network Rail, and Croydon Council has contributed to the delay in finding a solution.
“It has not been straightforward,”
Herman said.
“We were assured by Saturday (October 11) that the problem was resolved.”
Fellow resident Michael Donnelly told the LDRS:
“There’s been sewage leaking here for years now. Thames Water say it’s not their problem and the issue is a blocked drain on Network Rail land. Meanwhile, the council has done nothing to keep the area sanitised, or warn people that there is a sewage leak.”
After a week of confusion between the two parties, Network Rail eventually came forward and said they were working on a resolution. A spokesperson for Network Rail said:
“We’re aware of where the leak is coming from and we want to reassure local residents and businesses that we’re making a plan to address the issue so that it can be dealt with as soon as possible.”
The station owner also noted that several organisations would be involved in rectifying this leak but specified that Network Rail is going to be doing the work to fix it.
However, residents feel that the leak’s continued presence without a fix is harming the local area. .Michael said:
“It’s depressing that raw sewage leaking down the pavement is the first impression people get of South Norwood, but I think many residents have come to expect this kind of thing.”
Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said:
“This alleyway next to Norwood Junction station is not managed by the Council, but we are actively engaging with both Thames Water and Network Rail to get this resolved as quickly as possible.
We have made clear the need for urgent action, and whilst neither myself nor my office has received any complaints directly about this issue, I fully recognise and understand the concerns of residents and commuters. The Council will continue to press for action to ensure the alleyway is made safe and clean without delay.”
How can affected residents report sewage incidents and seek testing?
Residents should report sewage leaks or flooding directly to Thames Water’s emergency contact number or via their website’s devoted to fault reporting. Thames Water is responsible for probing and resolving water and sewage issues.
Croydon Council’s Environmental Health department handles complaints related to sewage impurity, flooding, or earth in homes. Residents can communicate with the council to request examinations or enforcement action.
Serious pollution incidents affecting gutters can be reported to the Environment Agency’s 24- hour incident hotline online or by phone. The agency investigates and takes nonsupervisory action against polluters. For health enterprises linked to sewage exposure, residents should consult their GP or original NHS services.