Smoother journeys, reduced traffic congestion and faster broadband have been promised by the Government as a result of a clampdown on utility companies leaving potholes after carrying out street works.
From 1 April 2023, new regulations will come into force for a performance-based inspection regime to ensure roads are resurfaced to the best possible standard.
The Government says it is investing more than £5.5bn in highways maintenance by 2025 which will help protect vehicles from damage to tyres or suspension and will also make roads safer for cyclists and motorcyclists.
Currently about 30% of utility companies’ street works are inspected, regardless of how well those street works are carried out.
Under the new ‘street works regime’ utility companies will be assessed on the quality of their road repairs after carrying out street works, with the best companies inspected less and the worse-performing companies inspected more.
Transport secretary Mark Harper said: ‘Today’s measures are yet another example of how this Government is on the side of motorists and other road users, leaving no stone unturned in the fight against the plague of potholes.
‘The new street works regime is a victory for all road users, with motorists and cyclists able to enjoy smoother, safer, and less congested journeys as we continue to level up transport across the country and grow the economy.’
