Sewer outfall pipes along the coastline that stretch up to three kilometres out to sea will be inspected by Yorkshire Water contractors including divers to make sure they are in the best condition.

A total of 26 pipes along the Yorkshire coast, from Mappleton to Staithes, will be looked at as part of a routine maintenance check by marine civil engineering specialists, ABCO.

The outfall pipes include long and short sea out fall pipes which significantly reduce the risk of flooding to streets and people’s homes sometimes discharge consented waste water to sea in compliance with Environment Agency rules.

David Hargill, project manager at Yorkshire Water said:

“This inspection work will help us to protect and improve bathing water quality by identifying potential problems with the pipes before they arise. They really do serve a vital function by helping to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall and so it’s essential they are kept in the best condition.

“We are continuing to work with the Environment Agency, Welcome to Yorkshire and local councils as part of the Yorkshire Bathing Water Partnership and are constantly looking to improve the bathing water on the coastline.”

John Osborne, Managing Director for ABCO Marine said:

‘'We are delighted to be working in collaboration with Yorkshire Water for the inspection of their long and short sea outfalls along the Yorkshire Coast. Our specialist marine teams will utilise the latest technology for inspecting each asset to ensure they are maintained to the required standard and continue to protect bathing water standards.”

A total of 26 pipes will be inspected at 13 locations along the coast.