Ofwat has launched a consultation on an application by Stonegate Pub Company Ltd for a water supply licence and a sewerage licence, with a retail authorisation limited to self-supply.

If the application is granted, Stonegate, which operates over 690 public houses throughout the UK, will be able to provide retail services to itself and associated persons.

Stonegate’s premises consist of 690 pubs and bars across the UK, within a wide variety of

formats, from community and high-street pubs, through branded bars, to country inns and late night venues.

The synopsis of Stonegate’s plans says the firm considers self-supply provides it with an opportunity to build on the works already undertaken and develop its partnership with Waterscan Ltd whilst

driving cost and consumption control. In addition, it hopes that being an active participant in the market will drive further innovation and provide a direct customer voice in MOSL discussions.

Stonegate have entered into a partnership agreement with Waterscan to take on the role and responsibilities for the retail functions including meter reading, CMOS transactions, wholesaler management and finding further water efficiency savings.

As such, Waterscan will act as the managing agent for Stonegate and provide technical support and services while Stonegate will build relationships with wholesalers and pay water and sewerage charges through the settlement process.

Deadline to submit responses or comments about the application to Ofwat is 24 July 2018.