Network Rail reveals cancellations and delays which resulted from sewage incident

The incident led to the emergency discharge of untreated sewage into the sea off Redcar as Northumbrian Water attempted to relieve pressure on the system to avoid sewage flooding, prompting a do not swim warning at some coastal spots.

Network Rail said “substantial amounts of mud and debris” were also deposited onto a nearby railway track. It said the line was used by both Northern and TransPennine train services.

As a result and over the course of approximately 12 hours, 24 trains were cancelled and 55 suffered delays. A spokesman said: “Extensive clean-up and engineering work was required to remove contaminated material, restore signalling and track assets, and ensure the railway could be reopened safely.”

Earlier this week Northumbrian Water said the damaged section of the Cargo Fleet sewage main had been replaced. It also released a video on social media showing drone footage of the scene.

The company said in a statement: “This has been an incredibly difficult and time-consuming repair, due to the fact that several thousand tonnes worth of material needed to be removed from on top of the main to allow access to the pipework.

“We believe that the damage was likely caused by the pressure of this material on top of the main, and was likely caused by a third party.”

The advice not to swim issued by the Environment Agency covered bathing waters at Seaton Carew, Redcar, Marske and Saltburn and lasted eight days until it was lifted on Tuesday.

Redcar MP Anna Turley said about 15,000m³ of sewage was being discharged twice daily until the incident was brought under control and there were “serious questions that need answering”.

The incident, which is subject to an investigation, is expected to have further ramifications. The Environment Agency has already warned of potential regulatory action, depending on the outcome of an investigation, while compensation could be sought by the affected parties.