Brighton considers lane rental scheme for roadworks.

Council authorities are considering implementing a lane leasing scheme that could cost energy firms up to £2,500 per day.

The project, which aims to cut delays and inconvenience caused by roadworks, would apply to several of Brighton and Hove’s busiest highways.

The idea calls for an application to the secretary of state to allow the council to impose the levies.

Councillor Trevor Muten.

Councillor Trevor Muten, cabinet member for transport and city infrastructure, acknowledged the frustration of roadworks-related traffic congestion.

Utility companies play a key role in maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure, but it is critical that they complete their job quickly, remove roadblocks, and keep the city flowing.

“A lane leasing program would encourage anyone who wants to work on our roads to do so swiftly and at times that are least disruptive to homeowners.

“I plan to recommend lane rental for Brighton and Hove to cabinet next month and look forward to presenting the case at the Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee.”

The Place Overview and Scrutiny Committee will assess the plan and provide suggestions to the cabinet, the decision-making body.

The scheme would impact utility suppliers such as Southern Water, Southern Gas Networks, UK Power Networks, and telecoms businesses.

Every year, the council gets over 20,000 permission applications for roadworks in the city, yet the current maximum daily penalties for permit infractions is only £120.

The proposed lane rental scheme would considerably increase this price, charging businesses up to £2,500 per day for roadworks on major routes during busy periods.

The scheme has already been tested in Kent and London, where it has resulted in faster project completion times and better company coordination.

Income from the initiative would be reinvested in city transport infrastructure.

The cabinet is scheduled to make a decision next month on whether to proceed with the application.

The strategy has already been tested in Kent and London, where it has resulted in faster project completion times and better company cooperation.

Income from the initiative would be reinvested in city transport infrastructure.

The cabinet is scheduled to make a decision next month on whether to proceed with the application.

Read more on Straightwinfortoday.com