Specialists called in for sewage pipe repairs on Isle of Wight

Repairs to an outfall pipe in Seaview have been delayed so specialists can undertake the work.

In February, Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely confirmed Southern Water would repair the main Seaview outfall pipe, which releases discharges into the Solent, following pressure from residents.

It had been hoped work would take place in April before the summer season starts.

But the company has now told a meeting of concerned village residents the work will not start this month as different contractors will do the job and permits need to be granted.

Speaking on Tuesday (19 April 2022) night, Laura Moran, Southern Water’s customer service manager, said the work has been passed to maritime specialists as it was not right for the company’s usual Island contractors.

She said those now contracted will scope out the work on Thursday (21 April) and a project outline will be completed by next week, which can then be shared.

The work needed to be carried out, however, requires permits — which in some cases need 28 days to acquire — that have yet to be applied for.

Southern Water representatives were answering questions from the public about issues including solutions to the Island’s drainage problems and discharges into the Solent.

Raymond Simonds, who organised the meeting, said they had four objectives for Southern Water in Seaview:

• to repair the pipes quickly

• make them long enough to keep sewage off beaches

• bury the pipes deep enough

• reduce discharges from the bay

Southern Water reiterated its plans to reduce discharges from the Island by 80 per cent by 2030 but only if 40 per cent of the surface water runoff could be diverted as it overwhelms the Island’s water system.

Speaking after the meeting, Mr Simonds said the feeling in the room from residents was apparent and while Southern Water had come reasonably well prepared, more could have been said.

Cllr Dave Adams who invited the water company to a meeting said he thought it went very well and progress had been made.

He said: “I think residents are right to have concerns, I have concerns. If we are blatantly honest, and in fairness to Southern Water, we do have to work with what we have got so there is no real quick fix.”

A proposal was made to set up a hub with the water company and residents so local knowledge and information could be shared.

Keith Herbert, Southern Water’s operations manager for the Island, said he was delighted to see so many people passionate about the environment but if they were going to achieve their target, they need everyone to work together.