1 week Ago
A company has been fined for overrunning roadworks that caused misery and severe delays for commuters. Brighton and Hove City Council slapped Openreach with the £80 fine after emergency repairs on the A259 at Saltdean on March 19 took several hours longer than scheduled. Traffic stretched as far back as Newhaven and it took some drivers two hours to get where they needed to be due to the works .
A spokesman for the telecommunications company apologised for the delays caused and said the work took longer because of a “vehicle failure”. Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport, parking and public realm, said: “We always expect the highest standards from utilities companies and their contractors because we understand the impact work can have on people throughout the city. “On this occasion, BT breached the conditions of their permit to work on the A259, which specified working could only take place between the hours of 7pm and 5am.
“These working hours conditions are in place for a reason, not least to help keep the city moving and reduce the impact on residents and visitors. We expect work to be carefully planned and take place in accordance with permit conditions. “If paid in the first 29 days, the fine will be £80.
Thereafter, it increases to £120. This may seem a small fine, but if we see repeated breaches of permit conditions, further action will be taken. “We completely appreciate the frustration of any road users impacted in this instance.
I am sure utility companies like BT are keen to work with the council to make the improvements our residents expect, but we will also remind them of their responsibilities.” A spokesman for Openreach said: “We’re sorry for the delays caused by an emergency repair to part of our network. This was scheduled to be completed overnight March 19 to 20 but unfortunately took longer than planned due to a vehicle failure.
The works have now been completed.".
