Disruption from roadworks across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole could be reduced by half under new plans from BCP Council to introduce a lane rental scheme on more than 100 roads.
The scheme would apply to around nine point nine per cent of the conurbation’s road network and is designed to encourage contractors and utility companies to carry out works at quieter times. Companies could be charged up to £2500 for operating on the busiest routes.
Four charging bands are proposed. Road closures, single carriageway occupancy and carriageway remedial works would fall into the highest band. Single lane closures on dual carriageways and works on cycle lanes would attract lower charges.
Transport network manager Richard Pearson told a transport advisory group the scheme could result in a halving of roadworks on the defined network, with a possible reduction of sixty nine per cent on critical routes. He said it is expected to generate around £2.3 million a year, with half of any net surplus going back into highway maintenance.
The council hopes to submit plans to the Department for Transport by the end of March, with cabinet set to consider the proposal on March 4th.
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