Isle of Wight sewage spill discovered near children’s play area

The hazardous waste, close to the park and a cafe on East Cowes Esplanade, was reported to Southern Water by Karl Love, a town and Island councillor for East Cowes, this afternoon (Friday).

Around the drain lay masses of wet, soiled toilet tissue. 

Southern Water dealt with the blocked drain quite swiftly, said Cllr Karl Love. (Image: Karl Love)

Southern Water came out quickly to address the sewage spill, said Cllr Love on his Facebook page, after he advised readers of it to use the other entrance to the play park.

“A cover had been forced off and the drain was clearly blocked with sewage debris,” he posted.

“It turned out to be an issue with the pumping station.

“However, I thank Southern Water for coming out so quickly and sorting this out, as this is a children’s play area and near a cafe.”

The issue was also reported to the Isle of Wight Council.

Flooding at the Esplanade green in East Cowes, with the tennis courts and picnic area under water. (Image: Karl Love)

Cllr Love also reiterated his concerns about the continued parkland flooding of the Esplanade green, caused by water flowing down from Springhill and across the road onto it.

“It has created a large duck pond — flooding the tennis courts, picnic area and gardens of nearby homes,” he continued.

Cllr Love also indicated a report of damage to a pipe, which carries water from Springhill down to the sea, had earlier been lodged with the council.

“Some maintenance needs to be done by the owners of Springhill to prevent this significant flooding,” continued Cllr Love.

“We have always had flooding in this area, but this is increasing as a result of what I believe is poor maintenance of ditches and gullies.”