Peak-time roadwork charges approved

Plans to charge companies carrying out roadworks up to £2,500 a day in parts of a city have been approved by the Department for Transport (DfT).

Southampton City Council said the lane rental scheme will apply to 67 roads and is designed to reduce congestion and delays for residents, businesses and visitors.

It said it encourages utility companies, contractors and highway authorities to carry out work at less disruptive times and complete works efficiently.

The local authority said it is now able to begin work with partners and stakeholders to prepare for the scheme's introduction.

It added that half of any extra money raised through the scheme will be reinvested into highway maintenance in the city, with the other half available to support schemes to help minimise congestion in Southampton.

Shirley High Street, The Avenue and Itchen Bridge are among the roads which will be included in the scheme.

In June businesses on Shirley High Street spoke of their frustration with Southern Water Roadworks which have been ongoing since April.

Councillor Jacqui Rayment, cabinet member for transport, said: "This scheme is about putting residents first by reducing disruption on some of our busiest roads and encouraging works to be carried out in a way that has less impact on people's everyday lives getting to work, school, appointments or spending time with family and friends.

"Fewer delays will mean more reliable journeys, better bus services and a smoother experience for everyone travelling around Southampton."

She also pointed to the environmental benefits that come from reducing the time people spend sat in traffic.

According to government data, there were 2.2 million street and road works carried out in England between April 2023 and March 2024.

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