RESIDENTS are calling for action over a sewage pumping station which they say continually lets out an “appalling” smell.

The station is based off Bridport Way, in Braintree, and those living close to it say the problem has got worse since the coronavirus lockdown was ordered in March.

They claim the pump needs to be upgraded as it regularly blocks up and emits an unpleasant odour.

Geoff Boston, who has lived near the pumping station for 18 years, says Anglian Water is constantly sending engineers to resolve the issue.

But he says the problem returns within a matter of weeks and insists a permanent solution must be found before 1,000 new homes are built at Straits Mill, behind the pumping station.

Mr Boston said: “I complained years ago that the pump was inadequate for the task.

“For the last couple of years the smells have got worse from the pumping station and the sewerage works the other side of the river.

“We used to drive along the A131 and even walk past the station and never smelt anything.

“But the last few weeks it has got very bad in the evenings during lockdown.

“There are many more flies than before and the smell recently has been appalling.”

He added: “It is worse late at night when I assume everyone goes to the loo before bed. It is overpowering at times.

“I have had enough of this now and want something done about it and so do my neighbours.

“How can the sewage works cope with another 1,000 houses, when it can’t cope now?”

A spokesman for Anglian Water said: “To ensure that we continue to act as good and responsible neighbours within our region, we continue to monitor and keep track of odours from our Bocking Water Recycling Centre.

“We have been investigating issues of odour reported to us by residents around Bridport Way, Braintree. So far, odour-loggers placed on the site of our works, as well as the local pumping station on Bridport Way, have not returned any significant results, but we will continue to monitor for any changes.

“As always, we would ask residents who notice unpleasant smells to contact us our customer services number 03457 145 145, including details of the location when they smelt the odour, as well as the time and date.”