Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 11
11
Deferred
Existing street works dispute resolution process inefficient, leading to resource-intensive legal disagreements.
Conclusion
The current dispute resolution process does not seem to be working well. Disagreements relating to the interpretation of street works legislation can end up as legal disputes which are resource intensive for authorities and utility companies alike. (Conclusion, Paragraph 53)
Government Response Summary
The government acknowledged issues with coordinating street works for new housing developments and committed to exploring options with MHCLG to encourage early sharing of utility connection plans, but did not address the recommendation about improving the dispute resolution process for interpreting street works legislation.
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
We recognise that better coordination of street works for new housing developments is essential to minimise disruption to the transport network and improve efficiency in infrastructure delivery. Local authorities have powers under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 and the Traffic Management Act 2004 to manage and coordinate utility works, including through advance notice periods and permit schemes. However, we acknowledge the concerns raised by stakeholders and the Transport Select Committee regarding missed opportunities for coordination due to fragmented planning timelines and limited early visibility of utility connection plans. We agree that there is scope to improve practice in this area. The Department for Transport will work with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to explore options to encourage early sharing of utility connection plans by housing developers and utility companies. We are committed to ensuring that the construction of new housing is supported by well-managed infrastructure works that minimise disruption for road users and local communities.