Responding to the Department for Transport’s response to the consultation on lane rental, Chief Executive of Street Works UK, Bob Gallienne said:

“It is disappointing that the Government has decided to extend lane rental without any clear evidence that it reduces congestion. We support initiatives to reduce congestion but we believe this approach is a blunt instrument that will make it harder for utilities companies to deliver vital infrastructure that powers the economy. The government’s own analysis of the existing lane rental schemes concludes that there is no causal link between lane rental schemes and reduced congestion.

“Utilities companies are delivering the infrastructure that the UK needs to drive up productivity, create economic growth and deliver on government’s priorities such as broadband and new homes. While we do not believe Lane Rental is the best solution, we will continue to work closely with the Government to ensure their proposals are implemented in a manner that reduces complexity, recognises the need for consistency and is only used in targeted and limited situations.

“Local authorities already have the powers to manage and co-ordinate street works, but are currently not using these effectively. Data shows that utilities are performing to a significantly higher standard than highways. It is therefore essential that these proposals apply equally to both utilities and local authorities.”