Local authorities should be given the power to fine utility companies which overrun on road closures, a Dundee councillor has said.
Fraser Macpherson made the comments as it was revealed SGN works between Glamis Road and West Park Road will continue until November 7, more than a week past their deadline.
Mr Macpherson said there was currently no incentive for utility companies to complete their work to schedule, and added a series of works in his ward over the summer had caused chaos for local residents and businesses.
He said: “I would have hoped it would have been completed as planned on Friday, but I have been advised they are running a week behind. It will now be Monday November 7 and even then they will have section work to complete, with temporary traffic lights in place.
“I have had a number of concerns from constituents about the speed of work.
“Very often you pass a closed bit of road and do not see frenetic energy.
“There is no motivation or incentive to finish their work promptly.
“I think the Scottish Government should give local authorities the power to penalise those who do not complete their work to schedule.”
A Transport Scotland spokesperson said: “We are committed to improving how roadworks, including those operated by utility companies, are managed.
“A recent review into the regulation of roadworks, including the role and functions of the Scottish Road Works Commissioner, made a number of recommendations for improving enforcement and strengthening the existing powers available to the commissioner and roads authorities.
“These included recommendations for increases in the levels of penalties which can be imposed for non-compliance.
“We are currently working up options for implementing the agreed recommendations and these will be subject to public consultation early next year.”
