Bishopstone Glen sewage release

Southern Water’s sewer pipe in Bishopstone burst this afternoon (Saturday 23 March), leading to sewage flowing into Bishopstone Glen.

The spill from the burst sewer pipe on Gainsborough Drive/Fairfax Drive was stopped at 6pm.

Southern Water is currently using four tankers to manage wastewater flows. They are also installing an over pump this evening to manage flows further until they repair the burst pipe.

As the burst is now contained and recognising it is in a residential area, Southern Water are planning to repair the pipe tomorrow, to avoid customer disruption overnight. As a precaution, they will have staff on site overnight.

Southern Water’s bathing water expert has investigated the potential spill into the sea, and based on modelling, the discharge is predicted to have had no impact on any designated bathing water. As a precaution the council has erected signs advising people to stay out of the water.

Environmental samples have also been taken by Southern Water and the Environment Agency.

Southern Water apologises for the inconvenience this has caused and they will provide a further update tomorrow, with more details on the repair work.

Published: 23 March 2024