Southern Water addresses concerns over Worthing pipe discharge

It came after Worthing Borough Council said it was “demanding a detailed response” from the water company.

The black discharge came from an outfall pipe on the seafront near Travelodge in Marine Parade on Monday, August 10.

Southern Water has now confirmed that it was not a sewage spill but rotting seaweed and silt.

A spokesman for Southern Water said: “A report was made to us on the evening of August 11 and we quickly attended the outfall opposite the Travelodge.

The remains of the rotting seaweed that was stuck in the pipe

“Samples were taken which demonstrated this was not a sewage spill.

“We believe the pipe had been partially blocked open by shingle and the water coming out was seawater which had been pushed up the pipe by the tide and was now trickling back out.

“The debris was seaweed and silt.

“We kept the council’s beach team informed and no beach closure was made. We’d like to thank the customers for making the report – we encourage customers to report potential problems to us on 0330 303 0368.”

Worthing Borough Council said it was “seeking assurances” that there will be no further problems with the pipe.

It has been approached for further comment.