Successful prosecution for illegally taking water
South Staffs Water has successfully prosecuted a developer for illegally taking water from a hydrant, through unauthorised use of a standpipe, on more than one occasion.
The developer was found guilty of the offence and ordered to pay just under £3,000 in fines and legal costs by Newcastle under Lyme Magistrates Court.
Mike Morris, Water Regulations Manager from South Staffs Water commented:
“When companies ignore this and illegally connect to the water supply network, they are not only avoiding payment but also potentially creating problems with the pressure and quality of water supplied to our customers.
“Providing a safe and reliable water supply to all of our customers is our number one priority and we work hard every day to make this happen. We take it very seriously when the actions of others impacts upon our ability to do this, so are pleased with today’s outcome. We hope it discourages others from acting irresponsibly in the future.”
This is not the first prosecution of this kind by South Staffs Water and demonstrates a zero tolerance approach with organisations which believe they can connect to the water distribution network without the appropriate authorisation.
Developers and other organisations who need temporary access to the water mains network can apply to hire a standpipe, visit the standpipe webpage for more information.
Posted: 24 October 2018