Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water are continuing their investigations into the cause of flooding at the Sue Noake site in Ystrad Mynach.
During a recent inspection of the sewer network, workers removed 11 black bags full of rags and a large wooden board from a chamber a short distance down from Sue Noake Leisure Centre. After these items were removed, the flow within the chamber improved immediately with levels dropping by 300mm - 400mm.
Following the removal of the obstruction Welsh Water reinspected the flooding chambers at Sue Noake Leisure Centre and noted the levels were at their lowest since investigations began back in January.
Welsh Water have described the restriction as a ‘significant find’ and are hopeful that its removal will keep future surcharge within the trunk sewer. They also confirm their intention to continue their investigations through the summer months and to inspect the Sue Noake chamber again during the next spell of extended wet weather to monitor how the sewer is performing at that point.
While this is positive news, as Welsh Water’s investigation and monitoring work is set to continue for a number of further months, the Council has decided to pause its plans to develop a sporting hub at the site until it is confident that the issues have been fully resolved. This means the associated plans to extend Trinity Fields School will also be put on hold for the time being.
Leader of Council, Cllr Philippa Marsden said, “We have been crystal clear in our position to date that no development will take place at the Sue Noake site until we are satisfied that the problems have been addressed and the site is safe for use by the community.”
“We have listened to the concerns of residents and it is important that we provide Welsh Water with the appropriate time and space to investigate the problems and undertake any further works that are required.”
“Our plans to progress the development, including the submission of a planning application, will be put on hold for the foreseeable future until we know the full picture and have assurances about the viability of the site for further development.”
Cllr Ross Whiting, CCBC’s Cabinet Member for education added, “We remain committed to the expansion of Trinity Fields School, but the plans to develop new sports facilities at Sue Noake are an integral part of the project. We will progress these exciting plans at the appropriate time in the future, once we are confident that the flooding issues have been addressed.”
Ed Bennet, Welsh Water’s Sewerage Manager said, “We are working closely with the council and Natural Resources Wales to fully investigate the breach at the Sue Noake site. We need to continue with a number of complex technical surveys to identify any further problems and then agree any appropriate remedial works. We will continue to keep our key partners updated as this work progresses.”