NEW rules are to be introduced in Dorset that will make it illegal to carry out roadworks without first applying for a permit.
Dorset Council's highways department is implementing the permit scheme after the government announced local authorities must have a system in place by April 2020.
At the moment, work promoters have a statutory right to work on the highway and tell the council when they will be working on the road.
Under a permit scheme, they will be asking for permission to work on the highway and will need to provide clear start, end and duration details – any alteration to these during the work could incur a fee.
Permit schemes were introduced by the government to reduce disruption on the road network and delays to motorists.
Working on the highway without a permit will become a criminal offence once the scheme is implemented in the Dorset Council area.
Dorset Council says it will also lead to better co-ordination and management of works on its road network.
Activities likely to require a permit include:
- Breaking up or resurfacing any street
- Opening the road, footway, verge or cycleway
- The need for any form of temporary traffic regulation order or notice, or the suspension of pedestrian crossing facilities
- Reducing the width of the existing carriageway
Exact details will be known later this year.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel