UK road infrastructure: New charging schemes and major highway upgrades

Infrastructure and road maintenance projects are set to impact several regions in the United Kingdom.

In the Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) area, the council has received approval to implement a “lane rental” charging scheme. Starting next spring, daily fees will be charged for roadworks on over 100 major routes to reduce congestion and delays. Fees are structured in four bands, with the highest reaching £2,500 per day for road closures or single lane occupancy. Revenue from the scheme will be ringfenced, with half of any surplus directed toward road maintenance.

Separately, National Highways is launching a £10 million upgrade programme on the A38 in Devon beginning in September. The project aims to address aging structures, flooding, and safety risks through repairs to the Whitecleave and Mardle viaducts, drainage improvements, and tree clearance. The works will involve lane restrictions, 40mph speed limits, and several overnight closures between September and January to facilitate bridge refurbishments and resurfacing.