Securing Section 50 Streetworks licences and Temporary Traffic Regulation Orders

During the design phase of Project Olympus, we began the process to secure the mandatory Section 50 Street Works licences (S50) to excavate roads for the new cable circuit.

The route passes through the London Boroughs of Newham, Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Islington. In a project this size, and with complex and varied application procedures, early engagement and relationship building was critical.

This process was exceptionally demanding due to boroughs having their own lead times for administering the S50 licence and statutory notices to start works. For the major A-road crossings, we also needed permission from Transport for London (TfL).

Due to the multiple stakeholders involved, we brought together the LAs and TfL to discuss the proposed cable route. Attendees were invited from operational up to senior level in a range of departments. Creating this opportunity allowed everyone to share their views and raise concerns. As expected, we were challenged on some proposals, which required careful negotiation before we could proceed. We were also able to show sensitivity to the disruption on residents and local businesses, share how we’d reduce impact, and provide updates.

Multiple temporary traffic regulation orders (TTROs) were also required before works could begin. This included road closures, bus diversions and suspending bus stops, parking bays and taxi bays, as well as materials storage, out-of-hours working, temporary traffic lights. For each application, the team carried out a site survey and submitted an appropriate traffic management plan (TM), keeping the relevant LA notified throughout the construction phase.

Allowable working hours were governed by the LA and in some cases restricted on certain streets. Due to the strength of our relationship with the LAs, we could request permit extensions at short notice when we encountered unknown physical conditions in the ground that impacted the programme.

On completion of each construction sequence, surveys and checks were carried out to ensure the road was reinstated as per the permit rules. The LA was notified within its timeframe to avoid penalty notices.

The team’s meticulous attention to detail, consistent engagement, trusting relationships and forward planning, have been the success to securing the licences and permits needed to allow the cable route to be constructed.