Wakefield Council is launching a Lane Rental Scheme that will charge companies for carrying out work on the district's busiest roads during peak times. From later this year, organisations including utilities will face charges of up to £2,500 per day if they operate on key routes during the busiest hours of the day.
The scheme aims to reduce disruption caused by road works and encourage organisations to schedule works outside peak periods and complete them more efficiently. A more reliable and free-flowing road network supports the local economy, connects people and businesses, and improves Wakefield as a place to live and work, according to the Council's Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Planning.
Three-council partnership with consistent approach
Wakefield, Leeds and Kirklees Councils have worked together on their schemes and each secured Department for Transport approval. The three councils are launching at the same time and adopting consistent charging and principles to make it easier for organisations applying to carry out work. This aligned approach also helps with planning work that crosses council boundaries.
Additional benefits
Alongside reducing disruption and delays during peak times, the schemes are expected to improve local air quality and improve the reliability of public transport by protecting key bus routes. Charges under the Lane Rental Schemes apply to Wakefield Council itself when it carries out works, demonstrating its commitment to limiting disruption on its own highways network.
More information is available at wakefield.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/roads/streetworks/wakefield-lane-rental-scheme
