Source · Select Committees · Transport Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Accepted
Ensure early notification and coordinated planning of utility connections for new housing developments.
Recommendation
Coordination of street works for new housing developments is not happening as often as it should. The Department for Transport should work with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on how best to ensure that authorities are notified at an early stage of, and have an opportunity to coordinate, the plans for utility connections to new housing developments. This should include requirements for housing developers and utility companies to share plans and timelines for installation of utility infrastructure to new housing developments, and setting out guidance to minimise transport disruption from such works. (Recommendation, Paragraph 74)
Government Response Summary
The government agrees there is scope to improve coordination for new housing developments and commits to working with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to explore options for encouraging early sharing of utility connection plans by developers and utility companies.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
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.