Marlow: Thames Water tankers cause traffic after sewer collapse

Thames Water has apologised to motorists experiencing heavy congestion on the A404 road through Marlow after a lane closure was put in place to help tankers transport excess sewage from faulty pipes. 

"We have closed a lane of the road while our tankers are on site for the safety of motorists and our engineers. 

"We currently have tankers across different locations in Marlow to manage excess flow of our sewer networks. They are currently on the A404 whilst necessary sewer repair works take place this week.

"The tankers ensure residents can continue to use their facilities and protect them from flooding. The excess is then taken to Little Marlow Sewage Treatment Works for processing."

The lane closure has already caused significant delays along the busy motorway, with one person telling the BFP they had experienced "miles of tailback traffic in rush hour".

Another person wrote on Twitter that the congestion was "horrendous", especially during peak commuter times. 

Chris Beckworth addressed the utility company directly, writing: "Thames Water, how long are you going to be causing carnage on the A404 in Marlow? Just so I can see about finding an alternative route!"

Marlow resident Rob Rayner said he had spoken to a worker tackling the sewage overflow, who had told him the excess was caused by the collapse and blockage of two sewage pipes carrying waste to the Treatment Works site. 

In a statement released on May 9, Thames Water informed the community of "additional issues" discovered in Marlow's sewer networks, resulting in a loss of facilities to some properties.

Adding: "You may notice an increase in noise and movement in the area as our investigations progress. Our tankers and over pump will need to operate 24 hours a day to manage the flows and prevent any flooding to our customers and pollution to the environment."

According to National Highways, the works along the A404 through Marlow are due to be completed this Friday, May 20.