WESSEX Water has been fined almost £15,000 after failing to install traffic lights on a street where it was carrying out works.

The company admitted two offences in court, although it claims there was no danger to the public.

Taunton Deane Magistrates' Court heard that Wessex failed to place, maintain and operate traffic signs in Collett Road, Norton Fitzwarren, for which the company was fined £6,000, with £2,750 costs and a £170 victim surcharge.

The water firm was fined a further £6,000 after also pleading guilty to "opening up the street" despite a notice saying "the carriageway incursion would be signage only".

Following the case relating to the offences on May 7 last year, a Wessex Water spokesperson said: “While we accept the correct procedures weren't followed, we do not believe there was any danger posed to the public.

“The work was taking place along a quiet residential cul-de-sac, so to minimise disruption to local residents, traffic lights weren't used and the few passing motorists were able to get past our roadworks on a ‘give and take’ basis.

“As soon as the council’s highways team raised concern, we immediately put traffic lights in place.

“We take the safety of pedestrians, motorists and our workforce very seriously while carrying out roadworks and also do everything we can to minimise disruption to local communities.”