Report Reveals Utility Companies Dug Up NI Roads 55,000 Times in a Year
Utility companies in Northern Ireland have reportedly dug up roads a staggering 55,000 times in just one year, according to a recent report. The Audit Office has raised concerns about the significant increase in infrastructure deterioration risk due to these road openings not being reinstated to an acceptable standard.
Department Failures Highlighted
Comptroller and Auditor General Dorinnia Carville pointed out that the Department for Infrastructure is falling short in meeting inspection and testing targets after road repairs by utility companies. This failure could potentially lead to accelerated deterioration in road conditions, posing a threat to public safety and incurring substantial costs.
Rise in Road Openings
The report identified the surge in road openings as a direct result of the growing demand for new internet and home energy services. Companies providing gas, electricity, and communications services are responsible for ensuring that road reinstatements meet adequate standards upon completion of their work. Failure to do so not only jeopardizes road conditions but also shifts the financial burden to taxpayers for any necessary remedial works.
Recommendations for Improvement
To address these issues, the report suggests implementing risk-based sampling for inspections and extending the warranty period for defective reinstatements by utility companies. By enhancing inspection and testing protocols, the Department for Infrastructure can better safeguard the road network and allocate resources more efficiently to benefit taxpayers.
In a statement, Ms. Carville emphasized the urgency of optimizing available resources to tackle the maintenance backlog, which currently stands at approximately £3 billion. The report underscores the need for proactive measures to uphold road quality standards and hold utility companies accountable for their impact on infrastructure integrity.
As discussions unfold regarding the report’s findings, stakeholders are urged to prioritize the long-term sustainability of Northern Ireland’s road network and explore innovative solutions to address the challenges posed by frequent road openings. Through collaborative efforts and strategic interventions, the region can enhance its infrastructure resilience and ensure a safer, more reliable transportation system for all residents.
