Guernsey Water has warned swimmers that the damaged outfall pipe from Fort George won’t be fixed any time soon.
Specialist workers have been able to inspect part of the pipe, which is underwater at Soldier’s Bay, but they found more work is needed.
Guernsey Water said its own staff, supported by Guernsey Ports staff, went to the Fort George outfall on Monday this week.
It was the first time they were able to carry out a visual inspection of the pipe and the suspected damaged chamber because it could only be done on very low tides.
This survey confirmed that the outfall pipe itself is not blocked and it is damaged in the area around the inspection chamber.
“We now need to assess how the damage can be repaired,” said Guernsey Water. “Before we do this, we also need to survey the section of pipe that is always below water.”
The utility said that work can’t be done immediately because a lot of seaweed has grown on the pipe.
“We are working with divers from Guernsey Harbours on this,” said Guernsey Water. “Given the damage, and the difficulty of the working environment, it is unlikely to be a quick repair.
“As soon as we have a plan for repairs, we will provide a further update. If you swim in the area, please be aware that this is the current situation.”
The damage was first reported after it was noticed that sewage was being discharged closer to the shore than it should be.
Guernsey Water said it was not aware of this fault until it was pointed out.
It alerted the Office of Environmental Health and Pollution Regulation which arranged for the water at Soldiers’ Bay to be tested.
The results of the water tests aren’t yet known. Express has asked for an update.
