We’ve had several calls to the Parish Office recently reporting concerns about local roadworks – we agree, there have been rather a lot recently!
We always try to follow enquiries up by referring them on to the relevant authority, liaising with Hampshire County Council Cllr Chris Dorn and sometimes directly with the works contractor.
Legally, utility companies have the right to work on their “apparatus” at any time. HCC does try to coordinate works and most utility companies seek to minimise the impact of road works. Some locations have a huge effect on traffic flows but national guidance on the safety of such works often leads to more expansive road works. This is for everyone’s safety, although the rules and practices have evolved over recent years, due to irresponsible drivers abusing road workers and in some cases injuring them.
More details on the HCC FAQs
And
We thought it was also worth sharing Hampshire County Council’s response this week to the latest enquiry relating to the Vodafone works on the Alton Road:
“It is important to clarify the limitations of Hampshire County Council’s legal powers in relation to road works. Highway authorities have the authority to inspect works in progress to ensure they are being undertaken in accordance with national safety legislation and relevant requirements. Where any non-compliances are identified, the authority can require the works promoter to take appropriate action to make the site safe. However, any changes to the site that go beyond legal compliance remain at the discretion of the works promoter.
In this case, we contacted Vodafone to raise and discuss your concerns. Vodafone has subsequently engaged with our Street Works team, and we understand that it intends to amend the current crossing arrangement to a pedestrian-controlled crossing.
We have also asked Vodafone to provide a contact point that can be shared with you should you have any further concerns in relation to these works: [email protected]
Yours sincerely
Highways Universal Services
Hampshire County Council”