A Government proposal to help crack down on traffic disruption could lead councils and utility companies to be fined up to £5,000 a day for leaving roadworks unmanned at weekends.
Less time and disruption
In a move that could ease congestion and frustration for motorists in Britain, roadworks would have to be carried out seven days a week, instead of just on weekdays as is the current case. The Government’s proposal would also make it mandatory to remove road restrictions if roadworks are put on hold.
Daily fines of up to £5,000 are already handed to councils and utility companies if roadworks overrun their schedule. Under this new proposal though, fines could also be handed out if temporary traffic lights are left in place after the work has already been finished.
Government reaction
The Department for Transport explains that the plan would only apply to roadworks on A-roads, which are managed by local authorities.
The Transport Secretary, Patrick McLoughlin, said: “I want to deliver better journeys for drivers. Roadworks can be essential but that doesn't mean they should be in place any longer than is absolutely necessary.
“That is why I am looking at proposals to reduce queues and make drivers' lives easier. These common sense measures will be a welcome relief to those trying to get from A to B on our local roads.
“Over Christmas we were able to lift a massive number of roadworks on trunk roads, but this package of measures will benefit drivers all the year round.”
