Bt Fleet News
Tougher Penalties for Disruptive Roadworks
Transport Minister, Sadiq Khan, has announced plans to increase the charges paid by utility companies for failing to complete roadworks on time. The move comes following the street works summit hosted by the Department for Transport last year.
The maximum daily charge is currently £2,500 but increases to as much as £25,000 may be justified in order to encourage companies to finish works on time.
Further proposals include good practice guidance for councils and utility companies, and lane rental schemes for companies wishing to carry out works on the busiest roads.
Mr. Khan said: 'Each year, roadworks cost our country £4.2 billion – this is unacceptable and unaffordable. Some contractors are showing a blatant disregard for the needs of road users, which is why I am proposing to increase the maximum fines for utility companies who let their roadworks overrun, as well as putting forward proposals to charge companies for carrying out work on the busiest routes where disruption affects the most people.'
Source: Department for Transport Press Release