Utilities work on the roads around Lanark are nothing new. In fact, it’s something motorists have to endure across the whole of Scotland — and when you’re dealing with 55,768 kilometres of infrastructure, that’s probably always going to be the case.
Every day some new patch of tarmac is being ripped up to make improvements, lay pipes or repair existing damage. It’s a constant battle to fix the old and repair the new.
So when BT engineers picked up their jackhammers and headed to Lanark no one batted an eye. However, when the works brought the town centre to a standstill residents began asking why they hadn’t received any prior warning.
As it turned out, BT hadn’t received an official go-ahead for the roadworks but had ploughed on regardless.
And they couldn’t have picked a worse spot if they tried. Anyone who has driven through Lanark knows the main road can be troublesome at the best of times. A long-term Scottish Water project and one-way system only add to the disruption.
So when BT descended on the roads drivers sat nose to bumper with their head in their hands, praying for the roads to clear.
In response to the unauthorised works, South Lanarkshire Council announced they planned to fine the communications giant. Community Council chairman Frank Gunning greeted the announcement with open arms, saying he hoped the fine would “teach the big utility companies that keep digging up Lanark’s streets that they don’t own the roads.”
However, when he found out the fine totalled a measly £120 — reduced to £80 if paid quickly — his mood suddenly soured. He lambasted the fine, claiming it was less than a typical parking or jaywalking fine. BT posted after-tax profits of £2.1 billion in 2015, which has led many Lanark residents are blasting the fine as a joke.
Gunning went on to propose a flat £500 payment for all utilities companies who want to “butcher” Lanark’s road.
South Lanarkshire Council claim utilities already pay a hefty sum — £70,000 last year alone.
Do you think utility companies should be charged more for carrying out roadworks in Scotland? Let us know on Facebook or Twitter.
Common Motoring Offences in Lanark
Below is a quick synopsis of the most common traffic offences motorists are charged with on roads in or around Lanark.
Dangerous Driving
Dangerous Driving is one of the most serious road traffic offences attracting penalties of mandatory disqualification for a minimum period of 12 months, a fine and the requirement to re-sit the extended driving test.
Careless Driving
Careless Driving arises where a person drives “without due care and attention” or “without reasonable consideration for other road users”. This is an area which has generated a great deal of case law as just about every driver has, at one time or another, driven without due care and attention.
Drink Driving
A person is guilty of an offence of drink driving if he drives or attempts to drive a motor vehicle on a road or public place when the proportion of alcohol in his breath, blood or urine exceeds the prescribed limit.
Driving without Insurance
It is an offence to use a motor vehicle on a road or public place, such as a car park, without insurance coverage. To be charged with this offence it is not necessary that the motor vehicle was being driven.
How We Can Help
If you have been charged with a motoring offence anywhere in Dumfries and Galloway, our specialist road traffic legal team is standing by to help. Our extensive experience in the sector allows us to quickly assess the merits of your case and provide a range of suitable options for you. For free, no obligation and confidential advice contact our team today:
