Council out to stop lead thefts
Rising losses of lead from the roofs of Torfaen Council buildings has led to the adoption of a new anti-theft chemical coding scheme. In the past two years the thefts have cost the council £60,000 and it’s estimated a further £72,000 could be lost over the next three years if nothing is done.
Torfaen’s cabinet has agreed to use SmartWater, a colourless liquid, to protect all council buildings, vehicles and valuable contents. The liquid is dabbed on to the uneven surfaces of items and each bottle contains a unique chemical code which is registered and conclusively proves ownership.
The liquid is invisible to the naked eye but glows under UV light for police to detect and is almost impossible to remove.
It is hoped the new scheme will protect over 180 significant buildings as well as the council’s 150 vehicles.