Councillor slams Southern Water for flooding in Colden Common

Manhole covers have been bubbling up with water and sewage for five days in Colden Common following heavy rainfall last week.

Ward councillor, Sue Cook, said she has seen sanitary items and sewage floating in the water, with most driveways and the footpath along Church Lane being flooded.

Colden Common Parish Council has advised residents to “ensure wipes and sanitary products are disposed in bins and not toilets to prevent them being washed up out of manholes”.

READ MORE: Flooding reported on Colden Common roads after heavy rain

Sewage filling up a manhole in Brambridge Crescent (Image: Sue Cook)

According to Cllr Cook, Southern Water believes the issue is due to a “hydraulic overload” but with the rain having stopped, the councillor doesn’t understand why it hasn’t been fixed.

Cllr Cook said: “After numerous phone calls, Southern Water eventually sent some tankers on Friday and they were working all day Saturday, into Sunday. And then on Sunday, they disappeared.

“I have pressured them again to tell them they need to be back here. We have nine holding tankers that are full to the brim.

Property in Highbridge Road (Image: Sue Cook)

SEE ALSO: Romsey parents raise concerns over flooding on Botley Road footpath

“There are still two manhole covers that are spouting water, which is a mixture of water and sewage. We need help now and Southern Water is not being as active as it could be and should be. It’s horrendous, the area is contaminated.”

All the roads in Colden Common remain open but signs have been installed to warn drivers to slow down.

Kiln Lane, by Brambridge Garden Centre, has avoided flooding despite being notorious for issues following heavy rain.

Southern Water has been contacted for more information.