A build-up of congealed fat that blocked a pipe was the cause of a wastewater overflow in Queenstown this afternoon.

QLDC General Manager Infrastructure and Assets Erik Barnes said Veolia responded swiftly to unblock the pipe and used a sucker truck to clean up the spill, which came from a manhole in Stanley St.

An estimated 2000 litres of wastewater entered Horne Creek and signs have been placed along a short section of beach where the creek enters the lake. The signs will be removed once testing confirms samples meet recreational water quality standards.

Mr Barnes said QLDC had already launched an education programme to explain why people should not tip cooking fat, oil or grease into drains, at home or at work. "This is a classic example of what happens - as soon as the fat cools, it congeals and then it can block the whole pipe."

The Council is also looking at developing a Trade Waste Bylaw, which would make it easier to take action against anyone found putting inappropriate material into sewers and storm water drains.

ENDS

By: QLDC