R v Anglian Water Limited (5 January 1999) Magistrates' Court

United Kingdom

Following an investigation by the Drinking Water Inspectorate, Anglian Water Limited was charged with offences of supplying water unfit for human consumption contrary to Section 70 of the Water Industry Act 1991. The incident occurred following the company's decision to increase the flow from water treatment works due to the low level of water in a reservoir. The increased flow caused sediments to be disturbed and this resulted in water discoloration. Anglian Water Limited pleaded guilty to the charges, was fined £10,000 and ordered to pay costs of £4,800. (DETR News Release, 5 January 1999)