56Power to give directions as to timing of street works
(1)If it appears to the street authority—
(a)that proposed street works are likely to cause serious disruption to traffic, and
(b)that the disruption would be avoided or reduced if the works were carried out only at certain times,
the authority may give the undertaker such directions as may be appropriate as to the times when the works may or may not be carried out.
(2)The procedure for giving a direction shall be prescribed by the Secretary of State.
(3)An undertaker who executes works in contravention of a direction under this section commits an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding level 3 on the standard scale.
(4)The Secretary of State may issue or approve for the purposes of this section a code of practice giving practical guidance as to the exercise by street authorities of the power conferred by this section; and in exercising that power a street authority shall have regard to the code of practice.