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 | | Saturday, 24 November, 2001, 18:24 GMT Roadwork firms could face fines  The executive wants to curb delays Companies who dig up roads and disrupt traffic face charges and fines under proposals published by the Scottish Executive. The move is aimed at reducing the delays and hold ups caused by road works. Utilities, such as gas, electricity, and cable companies have the right to dig up the road - but now the executive is investigating whether there is a need to encourage those firms to speed up the work and minimise traffic disruption. Ministers are seeking reaction to the idea that the utility could be charged lane rental for the duration of work and that the company could be fined by the road authorities if it takes excessive time to complete the work.
Launching the campaign Transport Minister Sarah Boyack said: "From time to time utility companies need to dig up roads and pavements and the inconvenience caused affects businesses, public transport users, private motorists, pedestrians and disabled people. "We need to ensure that the disruptions these essential works can cause are kept to a minimum and that the appropriate measures are taken to improve the impact of road works. "The consultation process will help determine the scale of the problems caused by road works and where further measures should be implemented. "It will also examine how practical the proposals are to reduce the disruption. "This consultation is another example of the Scottish Executive's commitment to improving conditions for road users." Sue Nicholson, from the RAC, said the idea was "superb" and should be implemented as soon as possible. | |
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