Network provider fined more than £40,000 for series of offences

Broadband provider Nextfibre Networks has been hit with fines and charges totalling more than £11k after pleading guilty to two offences in Somerset.

Magistrates said the offences posed a danger to pedestrians.

Somerset Council prosecuted the firm following works carried out in Bridgwater.

Nextfibre Networks admitted failing to install proper traffic management to ensure the safety of pedestrians while working in two of the town’s streets in breach of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991.

Taunton Magistrates Court heard the case earlier this month.

Along with the two charges in Somerset, Nextfibre Networks also pleaded guilty to nine similar charges in Devon and had to pay a total of £30k in fines and charges.

In respect of Somerset, Nextfibre Networks pleaded guilty to two offences:

• On Tuesday 12 September 2023, Nexfibre carried out street works at Taunton Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, in contravention of S65 of NRSWA 1991 by failing to install traffic management to ensure the safety of pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities and the travelling public affected by the works.

• On Thursday 21 September 2023, Nexfibre carried out street works at Westonzoyland Road, Bridgwater, Somerset, again in contravention of S65 of NRSWA 1991 by failing to install traffic management to ensure the safety of pedestrians, particularly those with disabilities and the travelling public affected by the works.

In passing sentence  the court gave full credit to Nexfibre Networks  for guilty pleas entered at the earliest opportunity and accepted the mitigation submitted; however, it found aggravating factors in that the works were deficient in any pedestrian safety and therefore there was a danger to pedestrians and road users alike and that the offences were numerous and committed over two counties.

Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Transport and Digital said: “We take these sorts of offences very seriously, carrying out works without proper measures is simply unacceptable. We will take action if companies are in breach of their duties.
“Our message to the public is please report issues to Somerset Council if you see them – help us to make sure companies work in a safe and considerate manner.

The court imposed fines totalling £8,000, costs of £3,325 for the offences in Somerset.