21 April 2011

SWW must sort out Camels Head stench warns residents

Residents of Keyham and North Prospect packed a meeting at Wolseley Community Centre last night (21 April) to tell South West Water they have had enough of the smell from Camels Head sewage works.

Organised by Devonport Councillor Mark Coker and Labour Group Leader Cllr Tudor Evans the meeting gave residents the opportunity to speak directly to Richard Gillpin, Head of Waste Water at South West Water plc.

Leader of the Labour Group on Plymouth City Council, Cllr Tudor Evans said: "It was a tremendous turnout, residents were very angry, but they remained polite and pressed their case with passion and courtesy. I only hope South West Water will show the same respect and courtesy by sorting this out once and for all."

The meeting heard that the City Council had already been in contact with the Environment Agency and would be meeting with senior representatives of South West Water.

Cllr Mark Coker said "If not resolved quickly, this could mean legal action by the Council. South West Water need to take this seriously. Last night there was talk of compensation. I am going to follow this up, if there is a chance for residents to receive some financial recompense for the misery they have borne, then I am going to make sure they get it."

Residents said that the council switchboard was often so busy that they gave up before they could register a complaint. They were reminded that they should call the Council's Public Protection Team directly on 01752 304147.