South East Water boss David Hinton resigns after multiple supply failures
The chief executive of a water company which was heavily criticised after severe supply issues caused misery for tens of thousands of people over winter has resigned.
South East Water said David Hinton had decided to step down but would remain in post “to allow an orderly transition over the summer period”.
“He feels his position has become an increasing distraction from South East Water’s most important priority, which is to deliver a resilient water supply for its customers,” the company said.
Several MPs had called for Hinton to go after 24,000 properties in Kent and Sussex lost water or had low pressure in November and December, and just weeks later up to 30,000 were hit with more issues.
His exit was confirmed seven days after Chris Train, the chair of South East Water, resigned in the wake of a damning select committee report into the issues.
Interim chair Lisa Clement said: “The board acknowledges and thanks Dave for his many years of loyal dedication and service to South East Water.”
Getty ImagesMike Martin, the MP for Tunbridge Wells, said: “From South East Water’s point of view it’s a good day to bury bad news with the results of the local elections.