REPAIR work to a damaged sewer pipe will take “a number of days” to fix, with sewage continuing to be pumped into the sea at Saltburn.
Engineers from Northumbrian Water are working with the Environment Agency to minimise risk to marine wildlife, however there is no risk to public health.
Work has been underway since the early hours of this morning (Thursday) to repair the damaged pipe at the Cat Nab car park at Saltburn.
The pipe was damaged by a third party working in the car park.
Read more: People told to avoid part of Saltburn beach
Northumbrian Water said the repair is a “priority” and is working in partnership with Redcar and Cleveland Council to stop the spillage as quickly as possible.
A spokesman for Northumbrian Water said: “Due to the complexity and scale of the repair work, this is expected to be ongoing for a number of days.
“Tankering is continuing to remove some of the contents of the pipe but it is inevitable that there will be a discharge.”
The car park and adjacent area of beach have been cordoned off while the repair work takes place.
The damaged pipe is spilling through the ground into Skelton Beck, mixing with the water and becoming diluted. This is then being washed into the sea, adding significant further levels of dilution.
Read more: Pictures as effort underway to stop sewage spill at Saltburn beach
“There will be some sewage in this and it's not pleasant,” Northumbrian Water added.
“But we're working closely with Environment Agency and they understand that we are doing everything we can to minimise risk to any marine wildlife and we do not see a risk to public health.
“As a precaution, people are asked to stay away.
“Every effort is being taken to complete this repair as quickly as possible and we will let people know when the situation is resolved.”
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