Transport Secretary Philip Hammond is due to announce that councils may be allowed to charge utilities to dig up roads at peak traffic times in an effort to reduce traffic congestion.
The Government has launched a new 12-week consultation on proposals to charge utility companies for digging up roads during busy times in England.
Under the proposals, councils would be allowed to charge the companies who want to undertake roadworks at peak times. Charges would not apply for works carried out during quieter periods e.g. nightimes or weekends.
The proposals include the implementation of lane rental schemes which whould initially be used in one urban and one non-metropolitan area. Any revenues raised from the charges could be used by councils to fund measures to help reduce future road works disruption.
Deadline for responses to the consultation is Monday 31 October 2011.
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Find out more about the remarkable career opportunities on offer at WSP - scroll down to watch the inspirational video.