At the Transport Select Committee meeting on Wednesday 19 March, KCC, along with other public organisations, Shropshire Council, Greater Manchester and the Local Government Association, presented evidence to MPs on the impacts of the increasing numbers of street works on the daily lives of residents and businesses.
The meeting was positive, marking the beginning of a long process. Coordination of street works is a complex issue affecting the entire country. Making changes to this does not solely rest with one organisation – it has to be a collaboration of willing parties and may require government to make changes in law.
The Select Committee will now review the evidence, and may invite utility companies to respond to the information provided by KCC and the other participating organisations. Members of the Select Committee will then create a report with a set of recommendations which will be issued to the Roads Minister for consideration.
“To achieve meaningful change, the government and utility companies must work together and support counties like Kent.”
Neil Baker, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport, said: “Access to utilities is crucial to residents, businesses and the Kent economy. However, maintaining supplies, or connecting new homes and businesses, causes significant travel and economic disruption, as well as affecting the surface quality, integrity and lifespan of the county’s roads and pavements.
‘To achieve meaningful change, the government and utility companies must work together and support counties like Kent, where residents and businesses face the challenges and disruption caused by the increasing volume of roadworks.”
Notes to Editors
There is no timeline set by the Transport Select Committee as to when this report will be finalised.
