The leak, coming from a manhole cover, lies at the top of the alley regularly used by commuters to the nearby Norwood Junction station as well as visiting Crystal Palace fans, and locals alike.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) understands that the leak has been a persistent issue for at least the last two years.
One resident living in the flats above the leak told the LDRS they haven’t opened their window in years because of the “putrid” smell rising from the alley below.
According to Labour Councillor Christopher Herman, part of the delay in resolving the issue has stemmed from a dispute over responsibility between Thames Water, Network Rail, and Croydon Council.
“It has not been straightforward,” Herman said. “We were assured by Saturday (October 11) that the problem was resolved.”
Fellow resident Michael Donnelly told the LDRS: “There’s been sewage leaking here for years now. Thames Water say it’s not their problem and the issue is a blocked drain on Network Rail land.
“Meanwhile, the council has done nothing to keep the area sanitised, or warn people that there is a sewage leak.”
After a week of confusion between the two parties, Network Rail eventually came forward and said they were working on a resolution.
A spokesperson for Network Rail said: “We’re aware of where the leak is coming from and we want to reassure local residents and businesses that we’re making a plan to address the issue so that it can be dealt with as soon as possible.”
The station owner also noted that several organisations would be involved in rectifying this leak but specified that Network Rail is going to be doing the work to fix it.
However, residents feel that the leak’s continued presence without a fix is harming the local area.
Michael said: “It’s depressing that raw sewage leaking down the pavement is the first impression people get of South Norwood, but I think many residents have come to expect this kind of thing.”
He added. “It’s part of wider neglect and lack of investment in the area. There’s a general feeling that no one cares.”
Rowenna Davis, Labour candidate for Croydon Mayor, has also raised concerns. “This unsightly, gross public health hazard needs addressing,” she said. “Residents say they’ve been reporting it for years with no action.
“The Conservative Mayor needs to get a grip and pull the transport and water companies together to get this sorted.”
Executive Mayor of Croydon, Jason Perry, said: “This alleyway next to Norwood Junction station is not managed by the Council, but we are actively engaging with both Thames Water and Network Rail to get this resolved as quickly as possible.
“We have made clear the need for urgent action, and whilst neither myself nor my office has received any complaints directly about this issue, I fully recognise and understand the concerns of residents and commuters.
“The Council will continue to press for action to ensure the alleyway is made safe and clean without delay.”
