More sewage leaks from Chesham treatment plant (From Bucks Free Press)

More sewage leaks from Chesham treatment plant

1:22pm Monday 4th March 2013 in News By Andy Carswell

ANOTHER sewage leak from the Chesham Sewage Treatment Works has been reported by an environmental group.

Untreated sewage leaked onto neighbouring land from the treatment plant on Friday February 22 - making it the third spill in the space of a month.

Concerned members of the River Chess Association said although the amount that escaped on this occasion were 'not significant', it is evidence of an ongoing problem at the sewage treatment works.

Previously sewage had leaked into the River Chess after heavy rainfall and melting snow meant storm tanks were unable to cope with excessive amounts of water, before a build-up of discarded fat, sanitary towels and wet wipes caused a blockage in the sewer a week later.

The River Chess Association said the operator of the plant, Thames Water, are aware of the issue and are looking for ways to resolve this reoccurring. The Environment Agency has also been informed.

In a statement the Assocation said: "This is one of a number of recent sewage pollution events at this location. We are working with Thames Water and the Environment Agency to avoid these incidents occurring but they are happening far more frequently than anyone would like."

All pollution incidents should be first reported to the Environment Agency Hotline on 0800807060. In the case of sewer leaks in the area contact Thames Water on 0845 9200 800.