A CONTRACTOR working on a road in Taunton has been hit with a massive £80,000 fine for safety breaches.

The Gas Transportation Co Ltd fell foul of the law while undertaking street works on Trenchard Way.

The company, based in Bury St Edmunds, pleaded guilty to failing to secure any part of the street which was open was adequately guarded and lit.

It also failed to place and maintain traffic lights and to ensure they were operated as required for the guidance of people using the street, particularly those with a disability during the work on April 11 this year.

As well as the £80,000 fine, the firm, which admitted breaching the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991, was also ordered to pay a £170 victim surcharge at the end of the case at Taunton Magistrates' Court on Tuesday, along with £1,463.83 costs, making a total due to be paid £81,633.83.