We, the residents and supporters of the Poppyfields Estate in Maghull, respectfully request urgent investigation and coordinated action regarding ongoing drainage and environmental concerns affecting our community.

Residents have experienced:

Frequent drainage problems requiring regular pumping of foul and surface water drains.

Recurring foul odours and drainage backups within homes, including sewer backups affecting ground floor toilets.

The drying up of Moss Side Lake, a historic local waterbody important for surface water management.

Significant negative impacts on local wildlife due to the lack of care, maintenance, and water levels in Moss Side Lake.

Currently, the foul and surface water drainage infrastructure on the Poppyfields estate may not have been formally adopted by United Utilities or Sefton Council, according to available information. This creates uncertainty about responsibility for maintenance and repair. 
After repeated requests for clarity and dialogue, residents still have no answers.

The estate’s ongoing maintenance is partly managed by a private company, RMG, to whom residents pay estate charges. There is a lack of clarity on the ongoing potential escalating costs to residents, if issues associated with drainage and management of the Moss Side Lake area are not investigated and addressed prior to handover. 

The Sefton Surface Water Management Plan (2013) highlights the importance of properly maintained drainage systems and water features like Moss Side Lake in preventing flooding and protecting the environment. The recent drying of Moss Side Lake, alongside issues with drainage and plumbing is a significant environmental concern that may be contributing to the decline of local wildlife and merits further investigation and remediation.

We Request:

A formal and independent investigation and technical review of the foul and surface water drainage infrastructure on the Poppyfields estate, including Moss Side Lake.

Clear, transparent communication from Persimmon Homes, United Utilities, Sefton Council, and RMG regarding the ownership, maintenance responsibilities, and adoption status of all drainage infrastructure.

Development of a public action plan to resolve drainage failures, environmental impacts, and to clarify long-term maintenance arrangements, including any costs to residents.

Consideration of environmental remediation or restoration of Moss Side Lake to protect local wildlife and maintain sustainable water management.

Why This Matters:

Effective drainage infrastructure is essential to prevent flooding, protect residents’ health and property, and maintain local ecosystems. The drying and lack of maintenance of Moss Side Lake is potentially harming local wildlife and the broader environment. Ambiguity about responsibility and costs threatens residents with ongoing disruption and potential financial burdens.

We urge all responsible parties to work together to provide clarity, accountability, and sustainable solutions.

Please sign this petition to support a thorough investigation and appropriate action to ensure safe, effective drainage and environmental protection at Poppyfields Estate, Maghull.

Cllr David Leatherbarrow 

Lydiate & Maghull Community Independents