Wandsworth proposes roadworks charges on its busiest roads
The council wants utility companies to finish roadworks more efficiently. Roads, local charges and a start date remain unconfirmed, with consultation required before a scheme is finalised.
Wandsworth Council has proposed charging utility companies for occupying its busiest roads during works, aiming to reduce disruption for residents, businesses and other road users. Its 24 September announcement describes a proposed lane-rental scheme, rather than an operating charging system.
The council says companies occupying the highway for longer periods, particularly at peak times, could face additional charges. It wants the financial incentive to encourage better planning and more efficient completion of utility works.
Roads and charges remain unconfirmed
The council’s announcement does not identify the streets that would be covered, set a local tariff or give a charging start date. Those omissions mean residents and businesses cannot yet tell from the announcement whether particular journeys or premises would be affected.
Department for Transport guidance describes lane-rental charges of up to £2,500 a day. That national ceiling is not an announced Wandsworth charge. The guidance also requires approval before a scheme can operate.
What consultation should explain
Under the national guidance, highway authorities must consult locally before finalising their bid. Consultation information should include the proposed streets and explain why they are designated traffic-sensitive, giving residents and businesses a basis for commenting on the proposed coverage.
Wandsworth’s announcement does not provide a consultation opening date, deadline or submission channel. It therefore does not establish that residents can already submit formal consultation responses, or when they will be able to do so.
The proposal forms part of the council’s response to congestion associated with roadworks, bridge closures and essential repairs. Its announcement also describes work with Transport for London, Network Rail and utility companies to improve coordination. Reduced disruption remains an intended benefit of the proposed charges, rather than a demonstrated result of a Wandsworth scheme.
Read the council’s announcement and the Department for Transport’s lane-rental guidance for the published proposal and national requirements.
Sources and context
- Council sets out action to tackle congestion and get Wandsworth moving againWandsworth Borough Council
- Lane rental schemes: guidance for English highway authoritiesDepartment for Transport
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