No swim warning update as burst sewage pipe leaks waste

The Environment Agency advised swimmers on Tuesday (June 30) to avoid most of the coast including Hartlepool, Seaton Carew, Redcar, Marske and Saltburn, after a sewage pipe burst.

Northumbrian Water said the issue was first reported four days earlier on Friday (June 26) and said efforts to repair the burst pipe are ongoing.

In an updated statement on Thursday (July 2) the water company said they expect work to be completed early next week, with the 'no swim' warning likely to remain in place in the meantime.

A spokesperson said: “Work has been ongoing since Friday evening following a burst on our Cargo Fleet sewage main near Dockside Road in Middlesbrough.

Surfers Against Sewage protest at Saltburn by the Sea. (Image: STUART BOULTON)

“Since the burst, which was likely caused by a third party, our teams have been working endlessly around the clock in order to carry out what is an extremely complicated repair.

“In order to carry out the work, the teams are in the process of removing several thousand tonnes worth of material that was recently deposited on the site, which is why the repair has been taking longer than anticipated.

The sites that have been issued a 'no swim' warning. (Image: ENVIRONMENT AGENCY)

“To get this resolved as quickly as possible, the teams are carrying out two sets of work – including a repair to the current sewage main and a longer-term diversion of the pipework.

“We anticipate that this work will be completed by early next week, and the Environment Agency will advise and update on their current no-swim notices.  

“We are continuing to carry out environmental monitoring and regular sampling, and are working closely with the Environment Agency as well as the local authorities, delivery partners and landowners.

“We understand the frustration this will cause and would like to thank customers for their patience.”

Alec Brown, Labour leader of Redcar and Cleveland Council, said previously: "I am extremely disappointed that residents and visitors have been advised not to bathe at our beaches because of a sewage incident.

"Our coastline is one of Redcar and Cleveland's greatest assets, and people rightly expect to be able to enjoy it safely, particularly during the summer months.

"This situation is simply not acceptable.

"The Environment Agency's advice must be taken seriously, and I would urge everyone to avoid bathing at the affected beaches until it is confirmed that the water is safe again.

"Residents deserve clean, safe bathing waters, and I will continue to press for answers and keep the public informed as the situation develops."