‘Drainage problem’ sees foul water leaking onto the floor of York shop

Part of a leading York store had to be cordoned off after a blocked pipe saw foul water dripping onto the shop floor.

A section of the Boots store on Coney Street was affected, apparently due to a problem with the drainage from a staff toilet.

Plastic crates have been used to collect the leak as the water fell down from the first floor.

It has affected the perfume displays on one wall of Boots. Several make-up stands have been covered in plastic sheeting to protect them.

YorkMix understands that the leak started last Thursday, and means the main staff toilets have been out of bounds for several days.

Since then, staff have had to share one basement toilet and sink in the store. They haven’t been able to use the kitchen sink either as it feeds into the same system.

Some shop workers have raised concerns about both the health implications and working conditions, YorkMix understands.

A Boots spokesperson told us: “Our Coney Street store is currently experiencing a drainage problem.

“The issue was immediately attended to by maintenance contractors as well as Yorkshire Water and the issue is due to be resolved today (Wednesday).

“Our team members at this store have been offered more frequent and extended breaks to access nearby facilities elsewhere.”

The building is owned by York property developer the Helmsley Group. A spokesperson for the company told YorkMix that the repairs were the responsibility of the tenant.

They said: “We have contacted Boots to advise them that the repairs are their responsibility, in accordance with the terms of their lease.

“We will of course endeavour to assist them if required.”