Peel: people have waited 'far too long' for modern sewage works

Plans for treatment plant go on display

The Chair of Manx Utilities says the people of Peel have waited far too long for modern sewage treatment.

Tim Crookall's comments come as plans for a new treatment plant have been put up on display in the town this week.

Currently, untreated sewage is pumped out to sea close to the breakwater in Peel Bay.

'We hope to be able to start work, putting those spades in the ground, later on in 2024. Building the entire site will take 18 months - two years.'

Robert Stimpson, Project Sponsor for Manx Utilities says the plant, which will be situated off the heritage trail, will put an end to that:

Local Resident, Rosemary, says it's been a long-time coming:

Chair of Manx Utilities, and Peel MHK, Tim Crookall says: "Majority of the feedback has been very positive. People of Peel have waited far too long to have modern sewage treatment introduced in the town. The plans will support what we need today and importantly support growth for the future up to 2050 and beyond.

"We want people’s voices to be heard and it is important we get feedback before we submit a formal planning application. I would like to take the opportunity to thank Peel Town Commissioners for their time and full support of the project."

But amongst the enthusiasm there is also concern - Jenni Quiggin owns a holiday cottage and lives on Peel Promenade:

In response, a spokesperson for Manx Utilities says: "Storm water is an unavoidable contribution to flows in a predominantly Victorian sewage network as is found in Peel. Separation schemes have removed a considerable amount of surface water in recent years and there are plans to continue removing highway drainage as and when the opportunity arises in conjunction with the DoI’s planned works.

"The holding tanks on the promenade are however adequately sized to ensure that the proposed works meet the requirements of the Island’s bathing water standards. The pumping station on the Promenade and the equipment within the holding tanks will be refurbished as part of the Regional Sewage Treatment Strategy works and we envisage that this will alleviate any current issues with odour.

"We are surprised to hear of sewage debris along the promenade, as this has not been reported to us. We remind anyone concerned to contact us on 687687 if they observe flooding or sewage debris around manholes, so we can attend and clean the area and update our records."

 If you didn't make it down to Peel Centenary Centre, don't fear, you can view the plans online HERE and contribute your thoughts via publicconsultation@manxutilities.im.