Roadwork permits come into force in Sandwell

Companies wishing to carry out roadworks in the Sandwell borough will now have to apply for a permit to do the work under a new scheme which will come into force later this month.

Currently, gas, electricity, telephone, water, cable and development companies inform Sandwell Council when and where they will be doing work on the borough's roads and footpaths – but under the new scheme, they would have to apply to the council for a permit to carry out the work.

By using a permit system, the council will be able to better control and plan roadworks – particularly when several companies need to do work in the same area.

The authority currently deals with around 15,000 notifications of roadworks each year. The other Black Country authorities are implementing similar schemes and Sandwell representatives have met with colleagues from other councils to discuss rolling out similar arrangements across the area.

Councillor Jackie Taylor, Sandwell Council's cabinet member for sustainable transport, said: "We manage 550 miles of roads with 880 miles of footpaths and this network is fundamental to Sandwell's economy and our communities.

“We all know that roadworks done by utility companies and developers, as well as the work the council has to do on our roads, can cause congestion and disruption.

“The way things work at the moment, companies tell us when they need to do the work and how long it will take.

“A permit scheme will allow us to more effectively manage and coordinate essential roadworks – basically, giving us more control. We will be able to better plan big pieces of work and schedule things like resurfacing and road closures to reduce disruption.

"Not only will this cut congestion, it will also help us to improve air quality by reducing the disruption caused by roadworks.

"We are committed to keeping Sandwell moving and cutting the impact congestion has on drivers, pedestrians and our residents generally."