Last updated:

5th August 2025

Utility works

As well as road maintenance works, carried out by our contractors, there are numerous other organisations (particularly providers of gas, electricity, water, sewerage disposal telephone and broadband-related services) who carry out work in Wokingham Borough. 

They complete work on roads, footways and bridges to maintain and improve the utilities required for households and businesses across the borough and these works ensure we all have access to gas, water, electricity, internet and phones. Planned maintenance reduces the chances of emergency works needing to be carried out, like a burst water pipe which can leave people without water and damage the road. 

Roadworks are vital in maintaining and improving the utility infrastructure but we understand they can be disruptive if not managed effectively.  

Management of utility works

More than 80 percent of the roadworks taking place across the borough are utility works.

We have a legal obligation to allow utility companies to carry out their works on our road network but they must apply for and receive a permit for our Streetworks Team.

Our Streetworks team ensure utility roadworks are well co-ordinated so that essential works can be carried out with as little disruption as possible while keeping everyone safe, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists and those carrying out the works. 

From co-ordinating complex projects to offering technical advice, our Streetworks team are dedicated to keeping our road network running smoothly and keeping everyone safe. 

Co-ordinating roadworks to keep the borough moving

Utility companies submit a request to work on our roads and footways and this could be for installation or maintenance works. A lane closure or temporary traffic lights may be required, and in some cases a road closure. Roadworks may need to be in place around the clock as they are having to dig holes in the road so closures or lights cannot be removed during peak travel times like we do with other works. 

Our Streetworks team works closely with utility companies, highway authorities, and developers to schedule projects effectively. By carefully planning and timing roadworks, we avoid overlapping works that could lead to unnecessary traffic congestion. 

In emergency situations, such as burst water pipes or gas leaks, we act swiftly. Liaising with utility companies, we manage traffic flow and ensure that disruptions are kept to a minimum, prioritising the safety of all road users. 

Ensuring compliance and safety

Every roadwork project in Wokingham Borough is required to meet stringent safety and regulatory standards. Our Streetworks team carry out regular inspections of worksites to ensure that safety measures, including proper signage and barriers, are in place.

Contractors who fail to meet these standards are held accountable through penalties. This commitment to compliance ensures the safety of residents, motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, as well as those working on our road network. 

Providing support for the community

Our streetworks team offers guidance and assistance to residents, businesses, and contractors. In 2024, we responded to 458 enquiries about utility companies’ roadworks, as well as providing responses to questions posted our Traffic and Travel facebook page. We answer questions about permits, road closures, or traffic management plans.

Latest information on roadworks

To find current and planned roadworks, scheduled road closures and diversions routes in the county being undertaken across Wokingham Borough, please visit one.network.

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