A new scheme aimed at reducing roadwork disruption across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole is being considered, as the council launches a public consultation on the proposals.
BCP Council is developing a Local Lane Rental Scheme designed to encourage utility companies and contractors to plan work more efficiently and complete projects in quieter periods.
The Government backed scheme would allow the council to charge up to £2,500 per day for works on the busiest roads, with higher charges at peak times.
Income from the scheme would be ringfenced to run the system, with any remaining funds reinvested into further measures to reduce disruption across the road network.
Similar schemes introduced elsewhere have shown results, including in West Sussex where roadworks were shortened by a combined 3,083 days over 16 months.
Only up to 10 per cent of the road network could be included, based on traffic levels, bus routes and the frequency of roadworks.
Councillor Andy Hadley said it was the council’s responsibility to keep traffic moving and reduce inconvenience, while recognising that roadworks remain necessary. He added that the approach had worked elsewhere by encouraging better planning and reducing congestion on key routes.
To introduce the scheme, the council would need approval from the Secretary of State for Transport, following analysis of consultation feedback.
The consultation runs from December 15 until February 1, 2026, with residents invited to share their views online.
Share us with your friends on social media, and have a listen to Bournemouth One online and on DAB for all your local news, traffic, jobs, weather, coastal info and more.
Register below for free regular updates via email.