West Yorkshire councils launch lane‑rental scheme to curb roadwork delays

Leeds, Kirklees and Wakefield councils in West Yorkshire are introducing a "lane rental" scheme that will charge companies up to £2,500 per day for carrying out works on the busiest roads during peak traffic periods. The scheme, approved by the Department for Transport, aims to shift roadwork to off‑peak times, reducing congestion, carbon emissions and improving the reliability of public‑transport routes.

Councillor Peter Carlill, Leeds City Council’s executive member for transport and planning, said the approach gives the councils more power to encourage efficient behaviour from utilities and other works promoters, minimising disruption for residents and ensuring a consistent policy across neighbouring authorities.