A recurring problem of collapsing sewer pipes has returned to haunt householders on an estate.

Hundreds of homes in Didcot's Brasenose Road and neighbouring streets were constructed using pitch fibre sewer pipes, which are prone to squash, blister and even collapse. It has been a recurring problem on the Brasenose estate for more than 30 years. Because of the blocked drains, more than 60 residents are now being asked to foot the bill for part of the original sewer to be replaced.

Last November the blockages began occurring once or twice a week, and a CCTV examination revealed that a section of the private sewer had compressed, meaning the pipe now blocks regularly.

South Oxfordshire District Council says the pitch fibre pipework must be removed and replaced with new pipes.

The council has a legal duty to ensure that the owners of private sewers maintain them in a satisfactory condition and has served a notice ordering 62 householders to get it repaired.

Residents have the option of getting together and arranging for the work to be done, or allowing the council to arrange a contractor and bill them.

John Flood, the council's cabinet member for Didcot, said "I understand most people are happy for the council to do the work."

The district council has not yet been able to estimate the total cost of the work, but Capt Flood added: "The good news is that because so many residents will have to share the cost, it will not be crippling for individual householders."