Locks and Security News: your weekly locks and security industry newsletter
17th April 2024 Issue no. 701

Your industry news - first

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Now they're stealing the drains!

Following reports of theft of valuable metals from buildings (lead from church roofs, copper piping, even street door furniture) the high price of scrap metal thieves can get nowadays means they're even stealing the drains!

A notice received at LASN from Kent Highways says they will make safe missing gully and manhole covers within two hours of being made aware. Meanwhile, however, they are urging road users to take extra care to avoid exposed holes in the road.

Anyone seeing suspicious roadside activity is asked to contact Kent Highways on 08458 247 800, or email [email protected]

Bryan Sweetland, Kent County Council Cabinet Member for Environment, Highways and Waste, said: "These are mindless and irresponsible thefts. They create a danger for road users, and add to our taxpayer's bill as we have to replace the covers. Road users should be on the lookout, especially on narrow roads."

Chief Superintendent Steve Corbishley from Kent Police's Partnership and Crime Reduction Unit, said: "Kent Police recently took part in a national day of action, visiting scrap metal dealers and targeting prolific offenders. We will continue to work with partner agencies on these days of action to raise awareness and to target suspects when we have information they are involved in crime.

'"We would also urge the public to report any suspicious sightings such as people working late at night on roofs or activity around manhole covers."
Kent Highways is looking into the possibility of using alternative materials that have no scrap metal value.

17th August 2011