Written question asked by Nigel Beard (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 May 2002, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 21 May 2002. It was answered by Sally Keeble (Labour) on Tuesday, 21 May 2002 on behalf of the Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions.

Dept for Transport Local Government and the Regions

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions, What steps he is taking to regulate road works on major roads. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Beard: To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what steps he is taking to regulate road works on major roads. [55565] Ms Keeble: We are introducing a range of regulatory measures to deal with disruption to road users caused by works on the street. In particular, last April we introduced powers allowing highway authorities to levy charges on utility works which are not completed to deadline. We are also piloting powers allowing authorities to levy "lane rental" on utilities for the whole duration of their works. As to maintenance work carried out on trunk roads, the Highways Agency aims to keep to a minimum disruption caused by such works; for example wherever possible routine maintenance is undertaken outside peak hours.

Secondary information