South Staffs Water has successfully prosecuted Lanes Group for illegally taking water from a hydrant through unauthorised use of a standpipe on more than one occasion.
Lanes Group was found guilty of the offence, which took place in Aldridge, Walsall in September 2016, and ordered to pay over £8,000 in fines and legal costs by Wolverhampton Magistrates Court.
Mike Morris of South Staffs Water commented:
“Responsible companies obtain an authorised standpipe to connect to the network and can be trained to use the equipment correctly and safely.
“When irresponsible 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.”
This is the first prosecution of this kind by South Staffs Water- the utility said it demonstrates a zero tolerance approach with organisations who believe they can connect to the water distribution network without the appropriate authorisation.
Mike Morris continued:
“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.”
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