Security patrols stepped up at sewage treatment works

04/05/2007

Security has been stepped up after a spate of thefts and damage at North East sewage treatment works.

Random and targeted 24 hour patrols and additional CCTV camera surveillance have been set up to protect Northumbrian Water’s rural works in County Durham after theft of equipment which will cost more than £100,000 to replace.

Raids have taken place over the last fortnight at about 15 sewage works serving tens of thousands of customers in the Spennymoor, Durham and Aycliffe areas.

Heavy equipment and plant stolen or tampered with in locked, fenced and alarmed compounds and buildings, includes tanks, steel plates, safety covers and hatches, screens, troughs and metal ladders.

Jackie Stark, from Northumbrian Water security said: “This is a worrying trend which we have to stamp out. Not only is it costly and inconvenient to the efficiency of the service we provide it is also a threat to health and safety and the environment.

“The culprits are also putting themselves in danger, tampering with power supplies, unbolting pressurised equipment and handling dirty plant where hygiene is so important.”

It is thought that the equipment is being stolen for its scrap metal value. Northumbrian Water are working with Durham Police to combat the crimes. 

Acting Inspector Iain Rodgers of Spennymoor police said: "Over the last few weeks we have had a number of thefts from different treatment works across the force area. We have enquiries in hand which we hope will lead to the culprits being caught, but we would still appreciate any help from the public. Although many of these works are in rural areas there may be walkers or other people passing by quite lawfully who may have noticed something suspicious.
 
"The extra security measures being taken by Northumbrian Water are very welcome and indicate how seriously this problem is being taken," added Acting Inspector Rodgers.
 
Anyone with information which would help track down the culprits should contact Durham Police on 0845-6060365 or Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.