Southwold sewer initiative

Together with Southwold council East Suffolk District Council and Suffolk County Council, including their Highways Department, we have safely removed and disposed of 20 tonnes of waste from 12,000 meters of sewer. 

We have invested £100,000 to make sure the sewers in Southwold continue to flow freely. This work is particularly important for Southwold so we can preserve a highly regarded tourist destination known for its beautiful coastline and scenery. 

We found waste such as wipes, sanitary products, fats, oils and grease inside the sewer.  When these items mix together in sewers, they create blockages that can all lead to flooding in homes and pollution of the local environment. In addition to the main sewer network the team also cleaned 1,600 connections from properties to the main sewer. The amount of debris collected and removed from these sewers would reach two thirds of the way up the lighthouse.

We used advanced technology such as cameras and sensors and removed the waste using high powered jets.  When we cleared the sewers, we also checked for any damage and made the necessary repairs to reduce the risk of future blockages.

We also installed 7 monitors which will help detect early warning signs of a blockage and act as our ‘eyes under the ground’ to make sure the sewers continue to flow freely. It will enable engineers to identify any emerging issues before they cause problems, protecting the local community and environment. 

These monitors will also provide great insight into any areas showing signs of deterioration.  Now the sewers have been cleaned, we will continue to work together with the local council and community to keep them clear. 

Supporting Southwold

To build on from the great successes already achieved, we’re looking forward to visiting Southwold again.  We’ll continue to work closely with the local food establishments to ensure the pipes remain clean. We’ll also be working with holiday makers and the tourist board encouraging them to avoid blockages, so that sewers remain clear, all year round.

What you can do to help

You can do your bit to help keep things moving! Around 80% of sewer blockages
are avoidable and caused by items which should go in the bin. 

Remember: 

· Only flush the 3Ps (that’s pee, poo and paper) down the toilet.

· Always put fats, oils and grease together with food waste in the bin,
  food caddy or specially adapted garden food digester.

· Used cooking oil can also be taken to the Leiston recycling centre.

You will not only be helping to stop sewers from getting blocked, but you will also be helping protect the environment by stopping the overflow from ending up in rivers and the sea.

Let’s keep it clear together.