Churchtown “stink pipe” could be replaced following campaign from Liberal Democrat Councillors

Liberal Democrat councillors for Cambridge and Meols Wards, John Dodd, Lauren Keith, Mike Sammon, Gareth Lloyd-Johnson and Leo Evans, have welcomed plans for the installation of a new sewage ventilation stack with replaceable carbon filter on Cambridge Road in Churchtown, a project that could finally put an end to long-standing odour issues affecting local residents and businesses.

The planned works have now been confirmed by the issuing of the purchase order from United Utilities to the contractor, with completion expected in September. This follows a year of work by local Liberal Democrat councillors and the local United Utilities team.

In July 2024, Cllr Mike Sammon wrote to United Utilities CEO Louise Beardmore raising residents’ concerns. This led to a meeting between Cambridge and Meols Ward Liberal Democrat councillors and the local United Utilities team at the Crowland Street Pumping Station.

In November 2024, Cambridge and Meols Ward councillors sent a joint letter to Louise Beardmore urging that the matter be treated as a priority. Ms Beardmore responded confirming that it would be dealt with as a matter of urgency and within days, the project began moving forward.

Since then, the councillors have received regular updates on the plans, culminating in the confirmation that the existing “stink pipe” will be replaced by a new vent stack with replaceable carbon filter.

Cllr Mike Sammon, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Cambridge Ward, said:
"I’ve been bothered by this smell for years and it was one of the first issues I started working on once I was elected last year. I’m really pleased that it seems we are close to a resolution and hope it will make a noticeable difference to the people living and working nearby and it should benefit the local businesses too.”

Cllr John Dodd, Liberal Democrat Councillor for Meols Ward, added:
"Residents have had to put up with this for far too long, it is one of the most frequently raised issues in Churchtown. We have pushed hard for a solution and it’s great to think it’s close to being resolved. We will continue to monitor the situation and work with United Utilities to ensure the equipment delivers the benefits promised. “

ENDS