Rats and Sewage Crisis Hit New Estate in Kent

In Kent, England, residents in a newbuild estate are facing severe sewage issues, as human waste has been observed flowing through the streets. This disturbing situation began in 2019, coinciding with the construction of the estate developed by Hyde Homes. A specific incident on Saturday brought attention to the overflowing sewage, with reports of residents encountering foul waste and damaged sewage drains. Leigh Hawkins captured the shocking scene, illustrating how disturbed the local community has become due to these ongoing sanitation problems. Hyde Homes has attributed the flooding to residents improperly disposing of items like nappies, sanitary products, and wipes, which have contributed to the blockages in the sewage system. This blame shift has raised concerns among residents, many of whom are frustrated with the developer's maintenance of the site and the increasing presence of rats in the area as a result of the overflow. Southern Water, though not responsible for the manholes affected, also addressed the pollution issues caused by the sewage overflow, emphasizing the significance of proper waste disposal in preventing further incidents. They stepped in to aid with the clear-up efforts after the recent flooding. The developer issued an apology acknowledging the distress caused to residents while assuring them that they are investigating and advising on the proper disposal methods. The situation remains a matter of concern, reflecting broader issues surrounding sanitation management and community health.