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Roadworks

Who does roadworks in Southwark and what rules they need to follow. How we monitor roadworks.

Street works in Southwark are usually carried out by utility companies like Southern Gas Networks, BT, EDF, UK Power Networks, Virgin Media and Thames Water. 

These companies install, renew or repair their equipment. This often means they must dig up pavements or roads. We're responsible for coordinating and monitoring this work.

All utility companies that work on public streets must follow the law which covers:

  • telling us about their proposed works
  • safety of excavations
  • what standard they need to return the street to when the work has finished
  • staff qualifications

Monitoring the work

We inspect 10% of the works carried out by utility companies. If we find anything wrong, we work with the company to resolve any issues. The company can get a fine if they do not comply. 

In some cases, we’ll complete the works and charge the company for costs incurred.

A company can apply for an extension of time if there are unforeseen circumstances.

We meet every three months with utility companies, the Metropolitan Police and Transport for London to discuss major planned works.