Lane rental schemes launched in Leeds, Wakefield and Kirklees

Leeds, Wakefield and Kirklees councils are charging companies such as utilities or other works promoters as much as £2,500 per day for operating on key routes during the busiest times of the day. The aim of lane rental schemes is to reduce the impact of works on the highway and delays by encouraging organisations to schedule works outside peak periods, and to collaborate or work more efficiently.

The charges also apply to the three councils for any works they carry out or commission, further demonstrating their commitment to minimising any disruption and delays on their own roads and highways network.

The three councils each secured Department for Transport approval for their schemes, and have worked together to develop a consistent approach to charging and common principles.

Launching the three schemes together will make it easier for organisations applying to carry out works, and the consistent approach will also help manage any issues where works need to be carried out near to council boundaries.

The schemes should also help reduce carbon emissions and help improve the reliability of public transport by protecting key bus routes.

Councillor Tom Hinchcliffe, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said:

“We're taking action to ease disruption on our roads. It’s vital that we keep the city moving. That's why we have introduced our lane rental scheme, which encourages more efficient behaviour from those working in our roads. This should minimise disruption for residents during the busiest periods.

"Charging companies who carry out works at peak times, when they could be carried out in a less disruptive way, is the right thing to do help drivers, cyclists and road users get from A to B in a safe and efficient manner.

“Working with our neighbours in Kirklees and Wakefield not only ensures fairness and consistency but also shows that we are mindful of having any impact on surrounding communities.”

The charges would not apply to road closures in support of events such as the Rob Burrow Marathon and the Leeds Abbey Dash.

More information is available at https://  www.leeds.gov.uk/parking-roads-and-travel/licences-and-permits/leeds-lane-rental-scheme