Persistent odour complaints and visible sewage runoff at the Vigie Beach Vendors Facility have prompted renewed intervention by authorities after a video circulating on social media this week highlighted what appears to be septic discharge near the popular area.
The video, allegedly filmed by a beachgoer and shared on January 7, shows runoff believed to be originating from the facility’s septic system, raising concerns about sanitation, public health, and the potential impact on tourism and vendor operations.
Several vendors operating at the site say the issue has been ongoing for an extended period and has negatively affected business activity.
“This is negatively affecting my sales because people are not staying around because of the stench and this has been ongoing for a long time despite our complaints to the NCA,” one vendor said on condition of anonymity.
Another vendor added, “If it wasn’t for that video on social media, they would never come and fix this with such urgency.”
The National Conservation Authority (NCA) has confirmed that the sanitation challenges at the facility are long-standing and involve multiple infrastructure-related factors.
General Manager James Perineau told Saint Lucia Daily Post that previous interventions included contractor engagement and pipe replacement within the facility. However, recurring blockages and mechanical failures continue to affect system performance.
According to Perineau, the problems stem not only from aging infrastructure but also from improper disposal practices, including food waste and grease entering sewer lines, contributing to frequent clogs.
The NCA has since engaged consultants to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the facility’s sewer and electrical systems. Pumping and mechanical works are currently being carried out while a long-term remediation plan is being developed.
Perineau noted that tenants had previously been advised to install under-sink grease traps to prevent foreign matter from entering the main sewer lines. Of the approximately six vendors operating at the facility, only two have complied to date.
Authorities say further engagement with vendors is planned as part of ongoing efforts to address the sanitation challenges.
No timeline has yet been provided for full resolution of the issue.
