'EXTREME weather', which has differed from previous years, is to blame for the amount of roadworks created by utilities companies this winter.
Prolonged periods of freezing weather down to minus 8C followed by a rapid rise in temperature up to an unseasonably warm 13C have caused multiple burst water pipes in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
Bournemouth Water said between December and January alone, workmen fixed a “significant number” of water leaks.
A Bournemouth Water spokesperson said: “Over the winter months we experienced extreme weather conditions, which have differed significantly to previous years.
“These conditions did cause a large number of bursts on our assets and put pressure on our network.
“Our teams worked hard, around the clock, to carry out repairs and, as a result, only a small number of customers experienced a disruption to their supply.
Read more: Reaction to emergency works in Barrack Road, Christchurch
“We would like to thank customers for their patience and our teams for working quickly and effectively to keep customers in supply during the challenging conditions.”
Bradley Barlow, spokesman for SGN, said: “We appreciate that roadworks can be frustrating and we will be doing everything we can to limit disruption.
“There are a number of factors that can cause gas pipes to leak. The ground is constantly moving under the weight of traffic and moisture in the soil, and over time this can damage our pipes. Third party damage can also cause leaks from our network.”
Despite the seemingly endless number of roads being dug up, BCP Council said the number of planned and emergency permits dished out to utilities companies for gas, water and electricity is down when compared to the previous year.
Read more: Roadworks at Iford Roundabout continue to cause delays
As reported, the council has said it will consider charging the utilities companies in a bid to get the roadworks done quicker.
The council said it would decide “whether a lane rental scheme will provide any additional benefits” and whether to apply to the transport secretary to introduce one.
Around 25,000 requests to excavate in the public highway are submitted each year, bringing delays and chaos to motorists.
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