Darlington residents battle 'hazard' sewage crisis at flats

70 apartments, spread across 11 blocks in Rosebay Court just off Hollyhurst Road, Darlington have faced multiple major drainage failures for the last six weeks.

This has resulted in raw sewage flooding the outdoor areas and creating significant health concerns for residents, which Kingston Property Services have said is 'under control'. 

The overflowing drains have caused effluence to flow approximately 30 yards down to the nearby homes and even close to a nursery, raising alarm amongst residents. 

With young children living in the affected homes and attending the nearby nursery, the situation has sparked growing fears about health risks. 

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous said: "We're dealing with raw sewage running down tarmac where children play and people park their cars. It's a health hazard."

Residents have had to avoid using back entrances and parking areas to steer clear of contamination. 

Despite the urgent situation, Kingston Property Services, who manage the flats has deferred the crucial drainage works till next year.

Whenever reported they have sent contractors out to temporarily fix the problems but until the major works happen this problem keeps reoccurring for the residents. 

The issue they also face is the contractors aren't cleaning the residue of the sewage after they leave, leaving the ground dirtied from the sewage.

Residue of the sewage left covering the grounds of the public area for Rosebay Court, where residents park their cars and children from the housing block play. (Image: contributor) The delays come as residents are set to have an increase in their annual maintenance fee by £600 meaning in the new year each flat will have to pay £2,600 for maintenance on the building. 

The resident said: "We have reported the issue multiple times, and they've sent workers out to temporarily fix it, but it keeps overflowing. 

"They've even used cameras to inspect the pipes, but nothing permanent has been done and we are still having this issue six weeks on. It's disgusting."

Kingston Property Services has yet to provide a specific timeline for repairs but has said they will take place in 2025. 

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A spokesperson for Kingston Property Services said: “Kingston have arranged for a specialist drainage company to attend Rosebay Court to rectify blockages on several occasions since November 2024.

“The drainage issues are part of wider remedial works required at this site, which a building surveyor has been appointed to manage.

"Therefore, the service charge budget for 2025 has increased in order to fund the remedial works.

“Leaseholders and residents have been informed at each stage and will continue to be updated.

"In the meantime, a contractor will attend when required to address any further blockages until the remedial works are completed.

“Kingston have been in communication with Environmental Health and they are satisfied that the situation is under control.”