From Newsgroup: uk.d-i-y

The Natural Philosopher <tnp@invalid.invalid> wrote:

On 19/08/2025 11:31, Tim+ wrote:

There is a septic tank near us that discharges into an open ditch by an
ex-railway line behind our house. The old railway line is now an official
cycle & pedestrian path and is much frequented. There are frequent quite
strong sewage smells in the area.

Given the change of use of the area, is this kind of discharge acceptable, >> or is it just indicative of a tank that needs emptying?

https://photos.app.goo.gl/upgrdcvSV1cSZnKz9

Tim

A proper septic tank should not discharge like that. But they often do.

It really needs replacing with an active treatment plant like a biodigester. It wouldn't be allowed as a new build option, but there a lot left that
are still in use.

The OP could try scattering the contents of a cheap box of bio washing
powder into the stream/ditch, to see if the enzymes digest whatever is in
there and so get rid of the malodour if not other stuffrCa

Ocado do this one:

Persil Bio stain Fabric Cleaning Washing Powder
21 Wash
Now -u4, was -u5
Offer name: Now -u4, was -u5,
click to see a list of all products on this offer
1.05kg
(-u0.38 per 100g)
Price
-u4.00
Previous price
-u5.00

You might get some traction from the environment agency.

--
Spike

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