Bairsto warns over DfT street works clampdown

Utility firms have hit back against the Government’s plans to clamp down on disruption caused by street works.

Last week the Department for Transport (DfT) confirmed that it was taking forward measures floated by the previous government including devolving powers to approve lane rental schemes to local mayors, doubling fixed penalty notice fines and extending charges for street works that run into the weekend.

Clive Bairsto, chief executive of Street Works UK, said: ‘The proposals the government has decided to proceed with will have significant impacts on the street works sector and the services we seek to maintain.

‘For example, expanding the lane rental scheme could compromise the quality and standards of streetworks, while increased Fixed Penalty Notices will raise operating costs for utility companies without significantly improving compliance, hindering their ability to invest in vital upgrades.’

The Street works: fines and lane rental surplus funds consultation also included a proposal to require highway authorities to spend at least 50% of any surplus lane rental funds on highway maintenance.

In its consultation outcome, the DfT said the government has decided to proceed with the proposals outlined in the consultation.

It followed an announcement from the Transport Select Committee earlier this month that it was to carry out an inquiry into limiting 'the damage and disruption' that utility works can have on England’s roads and pavements.

Mr Bairsto added: ‘Street Works UK looks forward to working with the government on the effective implementation of these proposals, ensuring that our members can continue carrying out the critical work that connects communities to essential services, while working to the highest standards to minimise disruptions and ensure high quality and lasting results.’