VILLAGERS today called for a full investigation into their troublesome sewer system before any land is earmarked for new homes.

VILLAGERS today called for a full investigation into their troublesome sewer system before any land is earmarked for new homes.

Parts of Trimley St Mary have been plagued by problems with the underground sewerage network overflowing, while there are also concerns over its capacity.

Last week manhole covers burst open in New Road, sending sewage into gardens, homes and street storm drains - though Anglian Water traced the blockage to solidified cooking fat caused by householders pouring fat down sinks.

A pensioner, who declined to be named, said it was the fourth time since 2000 sewage had burst from the manholes, seeping into her home through air bricks and covering her drive.

“Anglian Water keep assuring me it won't happen again and then it does - it is horrible. I think the problems come from Chatsworth Crescent and my house is at the lowest point,” she said.

Parish councillor Graham Harding said he had reports of sewer problems in Trimley High Road, The Avenue, St Mary's Close and Addington Road among others.

There had also been a reported “Trimley whiff” in parts of the High Road.

“My concern is over whether we have a problem beneath our streets and I think this whole issue needs investigating before any large scale housing takes place,” said Mr Harding.

“If the sewers are breaking up or are below capacity then that needs dealing with.

“The infrastructure connected with new housing is vital and we must make sure it is right for the people who live here as well as residents of any new homes.

“We have had 1,000 homes built here but the main sewers are still those that existed before.”

Suffolk Coastal has plans to build more than 1,700 new homes in the Felixstowe area.

Councillors vetoed proposals to build two large new estates in Walton and on the edge of Felixstowe and are now seeking to scatter them over many sites, with Trimley concerned its fields - owned by Trinity College, Cambridge - could take the lion's share.

No-one was available to comment from Anglian Water.

Are you concerned about Trimley's sewers? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail EveningStarLetters@eveningstar.co.uk