New roadwork scheme to cut disruption introduced in Kirklees
We are working to reduce disruption from roadworks for our residents by introducing a Lane Rental Scheme.
From autumn 2026, utility companies will be charged if they choose to operate on key routes during the busiest times, with charges of up to £2,500 per day.
The scheme aims to reduce the impact of roadworks by encouraging organisations to:
- plan works at quieter times
- collaborate to minimise the number of roadworks
- work more efficiently to reduce how long roadworks take
Councillor John Hardie, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Highways and Transport, said:
“Whilst roadworks are often essential, we all want to see less disruption and delays.
“This new scheme will help us achieve this by giving us the tools we need to incentivise better coordination, planning, and efficiency from those working on our roads.
“By joining up with our neighbouring councils we’re sending a strong message to companies about the importance of working efficiently and considerately.
“We want to keep Kirklees residents, businesses and travellers moving and lane rental will mean we have the powers to do that.”
A unified approach
We have worked with neighbouring local authorities, Wakefield and Leeds Councils, to secure Department for Transport approval for their scheme.
Alongside the two councils, we will introduce the schemes later this year to make the changes easier for those working on the roads to navigate and help better manage works that cross council boundaries.
Reinvestment and maintenance
The Lane Rental Scheme charges apply to all organisations carrying out works on our road network.
Any money raised from these charges will be reinvested into upgrading and maintaining roads.