We do not welcome these fines as they are a sign of failure by contractors to manage their work

Cllr Charles Cronin

The authority is determined to crack down on contractors who dig up roads causing congestion but cannot finish the work on time.

All the firms are utility companies and can challenge the level of fines.

Councillor Charles Cronin, who speaks on transportation issues, said: "The sytem of fines is in place to discourage utility companies spending longer than necessary digging up our roads.

"They cause congestion which increases pollution and wastes the time of residents, visitors and businesses.

"We do not welcome these fines as they are a sign of failure by contractors to manage their work."

'Utilities tax'

The system of fines was introduced in April and means that gas, electricity, water and cable companies can be charged up to �2,000 for every day they overshoot agreed deadlines.

But the National Joint Utilities Group says the fines create a situation in which their members are being made into "scapegoats" for congestion and poor planning.

It warns that the charges will be passed on to customers, who want the repair work done.

A spokeswoman said: "This is just a tax on the utilities for carrying out their duties, for supplying us with essential services."