GAS distribution company Cadent Gas has been ordered to pay tens of thousands  of pounds after pleading guilty to four offences in a prosecution brought by Shropshire Council.

The charges relate to work carried out in Shrewsbury's Monkmoor Road, Shrewsbury on May 9 and 10, 2023.

The court heard that Cadent had failed to place and maintain traffic signs for the guidance of street users, to provide a safe route for pedestrians, to adequately sign, light, and guard part of the street, and to comply with a permit condiition that a route for pedestrians should be maintained at all times, as no ramps were present.

Telford magistrates said in February that they understood the serious nature of the offences and agreed that such offences should be punished on the basis of protecting the public.

Cadent was fined a total of £34,000, plus costs of £2022.80 and a victim surcharge of £2,000.

Chris Schofield, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said:

“These offences arose from complaints from the public, and posed a threat to public safety.

“We hope this prosecution serves as a warning to all utilities companies, and reassures road users and local people that we will take action against companies that break the law.”