Drainage Connections: Section 106 applications explained

If you’re planning a new development, one key part of your project involves connecting drainage or sewer systems to the public network and staying compliant with local regulations. One of the most common legal requirements developers and contractors face are Section 106 applications, so that you can legally connect your new foul or surface water system to the public sewer.

In this post, we’ll break down what it means, when it applies, and how it affects your project timeline.

What Is a Section 106 Agreement?

A Section 106 agreement under the Water Industry Act 1991 is a legal approval from the local Water and Sewerage Company (WaSC) to connect new drainage or sewer systems to the existing public sewer network.

For utility connections, the focus is purely on the technical and legal requirements for integrating your site's private drainage into the public infrastructure. The approval ensures that new connections are built to the correct standards, do not overload the existing network, and are properly documented.

When You Need a Section 106 Application

Securing a Section 106 approval is not optional; it is a legal requirement for specific types of work. You will need to submit an application when your project involves:

· Connecting a new development’s foul or surface water drainage system to an existing public sewer.

· Modifying or relocating a connection point for redevelopment or site expansion.

· Carrying out works near a public sewer: Any construction activity that can affect an existing public sewer, even if you are not directly connecting to it, may require an application or agreement to ensure the asset is protected.

Essentially, any time your project interfaces with the public sewer network, you should assume an S106 application is necessary.

Who Issues Section 106 Approvals

These crucial approvals are issued by the relevant regional water company responsible for the public sewer network in your area. Each company has its own specific procedures, but the requirement is consistent across the UK.

Some of the main water companies that handle these applications include:

• Thames Water

• Severn Trent Water

• United Utilities

• Anglian Water

• Yorkshire Water

• Scottish Water

• Welsh Water (Dŵr Cymru)

Each provider typically has an online portal or a dedicated application process for developers to submit their Section 106 requests. It is vital to identify the correct authority for your site early in the planning stage.

What’s Required for Approval

· Drainage design drawings, including flow rates, pipe sizes, and gradients. They should clearly map out the entire private drainage system up to the proposed connection point.

· Manhole and connection details, showing how the private system will tie into the public sewer.

· Planning permission reference, proving the development is authorised.

· Construction details, ensuring the connection meets the company’s technical standards.

After approval, the water company may inspect the connection during or after installation to verify compliance.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Applying Too Late Section 106 approvals can take several weeks. Delays in submission can hold up your utility works start date.

2. Missing Information Incomplete plans, missing NRSWA accreditation, or unclear connection details are common reasons for application rejection.

3. Poor Coordination Without proper coordination, reinstatement costs and traffic management fees can escalate.

4. Lack of Inspection Readiness Failure to notify the water company before starting works can lead to penalties or rework.

How a Utility Coordinator Helps

Navigating the web of applications, technical standards, and stakeholder communications can be a significant drain on a developer's time. A professional utility coordinator or consultant streamlines this entire process.

A specialist can help by:

• Managing Applications: Handling all Section 106 paperwork on your behalf, ensuring it is accurate and submitted on time.

• Liaising with Authorities: Acting as the single point of contact between your project and the water companies, keeping timelines aligned and communication clear.

• Ensuring Compliance: Verifying that all drawings, permits, and accreditations are in place before work begins to prevent rejections.

• Overseeing the Full Process: Managing everything from the initial submission to final inspections, reinstatement, and record documentation after completion.

By centralising these tasks, a coordinator allows your construction programme to stay on schedule while avoiding the headaches of regulatory compliance.

Final Thoughts

Section 106 approvals are critical elements of utility planning that too often get overlooked until the last minute. Understanding what they are, and securing them early, is key to smooth, compliant, and coordinated utility installations.

If you’re planning a development that involves new utility connections or sewer works, our team can manage your Section 106 applications from start to finish, ensuring full compliance with all streetworks and utility regulations. Get in touch with us at contact@morganised.co.uk to discuss your next utilities project.