Tougher rules needed for utility firms digging up roads, MPs say
Calls for tougher rules on companies that dig up roads
- MPs have called for utility companies to guarantee road repairs for five years after digging them up, extending the current 2-3 year period.
- A new watchdog or streetworks commissioner should be appointed to manage the disruption caused by firms working on pipes and cables in England.
- Other recommendations include tighter controls on immediate permits, wider use of lane rental schemes, and better cooperation between utility firms to avoid repeated road closures.
- Transport Committee chairwoman Ruth Cadbury stated that repeated street works are a 'recurring nightmare' for road users and contribute to potholes.
- The Department for Transport acknowledged the disruption, highlighting existing measures like increased fines and new powers for local authorities, and plans to invest £1.6 billion in road maintenance this year.