A massive clean-up operation is underway beneath the streets of East Birmingham, where 10 tonnes of debris are being hauled out of the sewer system every single day.
The Scale of the Problem
Workers from Severn Trent are tackling a monumental blockage caused by a constant flow of unflushable items. Using powerful equipment, they are suctioning out a daily deluge of wet wipes, nappies, and other products that should never have been flushed. This relentless removal effort, which began a month ago, is centralised at the Severn Trent Plant in Bromford.
The scale of the problem is staggering. The operation is scheduled to continue for another two months, with the total amount of debris expected to reach a colossal 1,000 tonnes. Once removed, all this waste is transported to the sewage plant in Minworth for processing.
Impact on Local Areas
These blockages have been exacerbating long-standing drainage issues in key locations across the city. Residents and commuters have been affected near Washwood Heath Road next to Ward End Park, outside the Ward End Fire Station, and along a section of Alum Rock Road.
It is hoped that once this intensive work is complete, the sewer network will function far more efficiently, alleviating these persistent local problems.
A Crucial Reminder for Residents
Cabinet Member for the Environment and Transport, Majid Mahmood, used this operation to issue a vital public health message. He stated, "This is also an important reminder: only the three P’s should ever go down our toilets, namely pee, poop, and paper. Anything else risks blockages, pollution, and costly disruption."
He also took a moment to thank local residents, particularly those on and around Chipperfield Road and Chillingholme Road, for their patience and understanding during the disruptive but necessary works. Their continued cooperation is seen as essential for safeguarding the community's infrastructure in the long term.
