Approval for Scheme to Introduce Common Sense Planning for Road Works!

There is surely nothing more exasperating for a motorist, cyclist, pedestrian or any road user than facing the disruption of a road being dug up just a short while after the last time it was closed or restricted for road works. This has been allowed to happen because utility companies and other private contractors have not had to ask permission to access public roads and pavements. This week, however, the government has announced that it has approved our plans for a permit scheme which will see utility companies have to apply for permission to carry out works on roads in Bedford Borough.

This will allow the council to consider applications alongside planned council works and those of other utility companies to ensure minimum disruption for residents. It should also achieve better value for the taxpayer, as the fewer times a road is dug up, the longer it will last. It will be a criminal offence to work without a permit, and companies can face fines of up to £5,000. So this scheme does have teeth and will hopefully make a real difference, putting an end to those infuriating instances of repeated works on the same road which simply defy common sense.

We had to apply to the government for the powers to introduce the new permit scheme, which was designed in conjunction with Hertfordshire, Luton and Southend-on-Sea Councils. It's great news that it has given the thumbs-up to the plans, which will introduce accountability for any unnecessary disruption cause by those who dig up our public roads. Road users have been crying out for some common sense around this for years, and I look forward to its introduction! The scheme is expected to come into operation from November.