Labour’s Paul welcomes tough new penalties to tackle traffic disruption

The Government's Traffic Management Act will give local authorities new powers to manage and coordinate roadworks.

Paul said:

"The new measures will go a long way in reducing the disruption and congestion caused by roadworks.

"We all know how frustrating roadworks can be for road users - but they are also bad for the economy. Disruption caused by utility companies costs us billions of pounds a year. Roadworks are particularly frustrating when the works are not completed on time, or if the same stretches of road are dug up repeatedly.

"Under the new measures, there will be bans of up to five years on carrying out works on recently excavated roads. Utility companies who do not complete their roadworks on time will face a maximum penalty of £5,000 for every day they overrun, and higher charges will apply for overrunning on major routes.

"Councils will be able to set up permit schemes for works carried out in the street, and local authorities will be able to issue fixed penalties to utility companies that fail notify local authorities of plans to dig up roads in their area.

"These plans will provide better controls so that congestion and delays can be minimised. It's good news for road uss in Ryedale area."

Notes for editors

· the details of the operation of permit schemes;

· proposed changes to the system for charging utility companies whose works overrun;

· new rules governing when and where utilities can carry out works, how much notice they must give of future works, and the banning of works in recently dug up streets;

· a new code and regulations setting out the arrangements for authorities to issue utilities with fixed penalty notices where they fail to meet their duties.

· Copies of the consultation papers can be found at the DfT website here

· The consultation closes on 26 April.