Flooded by a mini-fatberg

Jericho’s sewage system is becoming blocked by coagulated lumps of fat that accumulate into fatballs, or even fatbergs. As a result, the flow through pipes has ground to a halt and sewage is leaking into neighbouring properties. The culprits could be the increasing number of restaurants in Walton Street, as well as households – who are pouring used cooking fat down their drains. This has become a particularly serious problem in Richmond Road and Walton Crescent. Thames Water has been investigating and works are now underway to remove the blockages. Local resident Hoonie Feltham says: “My basement has again been flooded with raw sewage which is very unpleasant. The sewerage system clearly needs to be maintained more regularly. But it also important to encourage everyone to dispose of used cooking oil properly.” Small amounts can go into your compost bin or food caddy. Otherwise pour the oil into a sealed container and place this in your green refuse bin or lilac sack.