Gas company fined over £15,000 for unsafe working practices in Wandsworth

During works in Battersea this past summer, Southern Gas Company (SGN) was found to have operated without sufficient signage, cones, or barriers, constituting a breach of its duties and a failure to comply with legal requirements.

Jenny Yates, Cabinet Member for Transport, said:

“The safety of our residents is always the council’s top priority. There is no excuse for unsafe working practices on our streets, and SGN’s actions fell well below their legal responsibilities.

“This prosecution sends a clear message to all utility companies operating in Wandsworth: the council will not hesitate to take action when public safety is put at risk.”

Southern Gas Company (SGN) entered a guilty plea at the Lavender Hill Magistrates Court on 27 January 2026.The court imposed a fine of £14,000 and ordered the company to pay costs of £1,250, totalling £15,250.

The council continues to urge utility companies to plan and coordinate essential works more effectively so that disruption is kept to a minimum, while also providing clear and timely updates for any planned activity.

Where unsafe working practices are identified, the council will always take action to protect the public.

To find out when roadworks are taking place in your neighbourhood, check out this interactive map showing which roadworks are planned, in progress, and completed.