Fall in road works disruptions since launch of permit schemes

Schemes requiring companies to apply for permits to carry out road works are reducing the length of disruption by more than three days, according to a new report.

Fewer road works over-run as a result of permit schemes, states the report, carried out for the Department for Transport by economic research and consulting firm Ecorys.

Around 65% of councils now operate permit schemes while the remaining 35% are being asked to introduce them, says the report.

Permit schemes cover works on all local roads and can be complemented by lane rental, where utility companies are charged daily for digging up the busiest roads at peak times. 

Roads minister Jesse Norman said: “Road works are the bane of drivers’ lives, causing delays and costing the UK economy £4.3bn a year.

Permit schemes are proven to reduce the length of road works, allowing motorists to have fewer disrupted journeys and reducing the burden on businesses.

“More councils should look at adopting permit schemes, as well as lane rental schemes in due course, to help drivers get to work and visit friends and family quickly and safely.

“Permit schemes, which were introduced in 2010, give councils more control over road works. Local authorities can also add conditions to the road works, such as the time when works can start and end, limits on the number of days they can be in place and where equipment should be stored, to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum. Councils may charge a fee to cover the administration costs of permits.”

This follows the announcement of a national roll-out of lane rental schemes later this year, which will see companies charged up to £2,500 a day to carry out works on busy roads. Pilot lane rental schemes in London and Kent have seen congestion on the busiest roads drop, saving drivers time and boosting the economy, says the report.

The DfT is also urging companies to carry out works on pavements, where possible, instead of under roads to avoid any disruption to motorists.