DfT invites local authorities to apply for joint permit schemes

The DfT has invited groups of neighbouring local authorities to come forward with plans for joint permit schemes to minimise traffic disruption caused by streetworks and roadworks.

The invitation comes in a new guide to permit schemes that draws on lessons learned from the initial permit applications made by Kent and London. Both schemes recently went live following Secretary of State approval.

Kent’s scheme is a single authority model and London’s is a ‘common scheme’ whereby Transport for London and just over half of the boroughs have agreed to implement the scheme but each organisation will manage the scheme on its own roads.

The DfT is now keen to explore the opportunities presented by a ‘joint scheme’, whereby a group of authorities implement a single scheme that is managed and run centrally. “This option is likely to deliver the greatest possible efficiencies in administration and the most seamless service to works promoters and to the public,” says the DfT. The Department invites groups of authorities interested in the idea to come forward for an “early discussion”.

The guide encourages local authorities preparing permit schemes to engage with utility companies that will have to pay the permit fees. “Public engagement on permit schemes should not be limited to a formal consultation process,” says the DfT.

The Department says the key task for councils considering permit schemes is to estimate the reduction in road user delay that permits would deliver. This should then be compared with the additional costs, such as staffing, that are needed to implement a  scheme. “If this comparison is strongly positive, decision-makers can feel confident that further development of the scheme is likely to be worthwhile,” it says.

The DfT will assess applications against four criteria: compliance with legislation; whether the proposed permit fees are “reasonable and adequately justified”; value for money; and deliverability.

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