We cannot allow any obstruction over or close to our water pipes because of the risk this creates in the event of a burst or a leak on the pipe. If a burst or leak does occur then the presence of a permanent obstruction makes it very difficult for us to access to carry out any necessary repair.
For example, if a building has been constructed over our water pipe and the pipe bursts, this would cause substantial damage and may endanger the structure of the building, possibly to the point of collapse. An undetected long-term leak can erode building foundations causing a similar threat to the structure of a building situated over the leaking pipe. The weight of the building places additional stress on the underlying pipe making it much more likely that a burst or leak will occur than would usually be the case. These risks are compounded by our inability to access the mains to carry out any necessary maintenance and repair.
If there are water pipes in your land which will affect your proposed development, you will need to consider whether to alter your plans to enable you to build a safe distance from our water pipes, or to make an application to divert the water pipes away from the proposed area of development. These options are set out in more detail below.