Oldham: Drain leaking 'sewage' left to run through park

A drain in Royton Linear Park, which is looked after by a community group, has reportedly burst and left a trail of sewage running through the park.

Video footage of the burst drain shows a murky black trail of water coming from the drain cover and stretching metres down a path.

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Residents said the smell is "awful" and poses a hazard to dogs.

However, despite reporting the incident to United Utilities and Oldham Council, Natalie Harold said the sewage has been left to run freely 'for weeks'.

The mother said she first reported the problem to United Utilities in December last year but was informed that the responsibility lies with the Council.

Ms Harold contacted the council on December 10, then again on December 18 and finally on January 13.

She said the local authority told her she would receive an update but never did, and that the problem still is not fixed.

Ms Harold added: "It smells disgusting.

"It's running down the path and all into the soil.

"It's obviously worse when it rains.

"It's difficult to avoid when walking past with dogs and I wouldn't want them, or my daughter, going anywhere near it."

The Oldhamer said she believes the problem is sewage because of the smell and its appearance.

She continued: "Even without the smell, you can tell straight away it's sewage and not water.

"It has that horrible, scummy, oil look to it - and you can see how far it is flowing down the path in the video."

United Utilities said it is not responsible for the problem and that Oldham Council is dealing with the matter.

Oldham Council has been approached for comment.

Got a story or a concern in your community? Contact me via email Olivia.bridge@newsquest.co.uk or send me a message on Facebook or Twitter @Livbridge