A LYDNEY couple found themselves inundated with raw sewage from an unoccupied neighbouring flat in the run up to Christmas.
Anthony Jones and Megan Williams say Two Rivers Housing who are landlords to both properties in Harrison Way, Lydney, failed to respond swiftly to deal with the crisis.
Anthony’s sister Emma Ryan, who contacted the Forester on the couple’s behalf said:
“They live in a top floor flat and have noticed her hallway downstairs which is connected to the downstairs flat has been smelling and the floor wet.
“Megan contacted Two Rivers on December 6, and someone was sent out.
“They said there is a leak coming from next door and they would ring to gain access. The tenant below has not lived there for a long time and Megan explained this to them.
“They refused to gain access even knowing the tenant had not lived there for over a month. The tenant was contacted and did not turn up last Thursday to meet Two Rivers.
“She rang two rivers again and said the water is worse and her son has just had an inhaler from the doctors and the condition of the house is contributing to his medical condition.
“Two Rivers still refused to gain access after yet having more confirmation from people who know the tenant that they have moved Bristol way.
“They have told Megan they need to contact the tenant before anything happens.
“She is living in poor conditions that are affecting my nephew’s health and also my brother has a broken ankle and is unable to leave the property safely on crutches due to the wetness of the floor.
On Friday Two Rivers sent someone to break into the flat below as Megan contacted environmental health and her health visitor. To their surprise they found raw sewage and used drug needles in the property.
“The workman left as he could not to do work around needles. They said someone would be back within two hours. But no one came to fix the problem.
“Megan had environmental health visit and explain someone would contact her the next day to discuss cleaning of her carpet. In my eyes unacceptable.
Two Rivers have not offered any temporary accommodation.
FULL STORY IN THE FORESTER