Sewage leaked into the staff area of a chemotherapy unit and a sink pipe burst, leaking “dirty water” in a hospital.

A month ago, sewage leaked into the staff area of a chemotherapy unit in Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton, it has now been revealed.

The incident, which is believed to be the result of a “failed toilet pan”, was fixed and has not happened since, the hospital trust said.

On Monday, a water pipe flowing from a sink burst and leaked “dirty old water” into the hospital.

The building is “notoriously old” and believed to be in some state of disrepair. It is understood that it was considered ready for replacement as long as 15 years ago.

A spokeswoman for University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust said: “Like most ageing buildings, the Cancer Centre is prone to problems and regularly requires maintenance.

“Sadly, a month ago there was a sewage leak in a staff area – this was rapidly dealt with, but was upsetting for everyone affected and we completed a full safety review afterwards. Ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness and infection control is essential for our patients, and colleagues.

“Separately, this week there was a water leak from a sink. Again, the issue was rapidly resolved but we apologise to everyone who was affected.”

The 3Ts Redevelopment is replacing all the buildings on the front half of the Royal Sussex County Hospital. 

The second phase of the redevelopment promises a new Sussex Cancer Centre which will bring outpatient and inpatient services together for the first time along with more beds, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatment spaces in a modern, purpose-built hospital.