Possible New build in Garden - Too near drains/sewers ?

[davidnow]

I am looking to buy a semi with a good size garden which to the untrained eye looks like a potential building plot.

The existing property has manholes on the path to the righthand side, within a metre of the property, with the pipe running parallel to the outside wall.

To the right of the property there is approx 8m width of lawn, to a depth the same as existing property including front and back gardens.

The semi is about 6m wide. It is a 1950s ex local authority 3 bed property.

I think a 5m wide 2 bed detached, or maybe 3 bed using roof space would fit well.

However I read the Northumbria Water website

https://www.nwl.co.uk/_assets/documents/BO_guide_Jan15.pdf

and it says


BEGIN QUOTE >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
If there is a sewer within 3 metres of your proposed works you should first consider one of the following options;

•  Modify your plans to avoid the sewer, so that the buildings are at least 3 metres away. This is often the cheapest and easiest option.
  
  
•  If the plans can not be modified, we would usually require the sewer to be diverted. Please refer to our diversion guidance and application form for further details which can be found on our website: www.nwl.co.uk/developers/adoption-diversions-closures.aspx
  
  Under no circumstances will building over be allowed where;
  

•  The sewer is a pressurised pumping main
  
  
•  An existing or proposed manhole would be located inside the building.
  
  
•  The development is a new detached development or redevelopment.
  
  
•  The sewer has a formal easement preventing build over.
  
  
•  There is an existing water main.
  

END QUOTE >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

So, Under no circumstances will building over be allowed where The development is a new detached development.


Does this mean building directly over or , building within 3m ?

If it means the latter , it looks like a non starter.

 

[maltaron]

If the drain in question serves only your property then its yours and not the responsibility of the water authority. If it serves more than one property then the water authority may well be concerned. The question is: if the drain currently serves only your property and your proposed new build uses the same drain, then the water authority will be concerned.