Sewage leak sea swimming ban lifted
BBCAdvice to avoid swimming in the sea after a sewage pipe burst has been lifted.
Untreated sewage leaked into the River Tees when the Cargo Fleet main, near Dockside Road in Middlesbrough, burst on the evening of 26 June, affecting beaches in Hartlepool, Redcar, Saltburn and Marske.
The Environment Agency (EA) lifted its advice against swimming on Wednesday and said an investigation was continuing into the leak.
Northumbrian Water, which previously said it believed the damage was caused "by a third party", confirmed the main pipe had been repaired and was back in service.
Labour MP for Redcar Anna Turley said the the lifting of the bathing ban was "very welcome news".
"However, there are still serious questions that need answering."
Northumbrian WaterNorthumbrian Water said workers moved several thousand tonnes of waste from on top of the pipe.
"We believe that the damage was likely caused by the pressure of this material on top of the main and was likely caused by a third party," a spokesperson said.
"Work will be continuing over the next few weeks as a more permanent solution is put in place, but we can confirm that there will be no further emergency discharges."
The EA confirmed advice against swimming was lifted at Seaton Carew North, Seaton Carew Centre, Seaton Carew North Gare, Redcar Coatham, Redcar Lifeboat Station, Redcar Granville, Redcar Stray, Marske Sands and Saltburn.
