Utility firms face financial pain for poor road repairs
DRIVERS across the News & Mail patch are hoping to benefit after the Department for Transport announced that new measures will be introduced to deal with poor quality roads.
As part of plans unveiled on Friday, the Government announced a proposed change in the law to help motorists benefit from smoother journeys. Companies who are found to be responsible for leaving potholes on the roads across the country will be penalised and inspected more regularly.
It is expected the law change could prevent thousands of potholes from being left behind by utility firms.
A performance-based inspection regime will be introduced with the worst-performing utility companies – in terms of roadwork repairs – facing financial penalties. The new law is hoped to spare motorists from damage to car tyres or suspensions caused by driving over potholes, therefore helping them save money on expensive repairs.
Government data shows that utility companies are failing 9% of current inspections, with one firm in particular failing 63% of inspections.
Companies will also have to provide more up-to-date information to local authorities on live roadworks in a move that is hoped will aid congestion.
Transport secretary Grant Shapps said: “The plague of potholes is the menace of our roads. That’s why I’m ensuring companies who create them and leave roads in a poor state can be held to account more easily – protecting drivers from unfair repair costs.
“We’ve already invested billions of pounds into roads maintenance, helping local authorities keep their highways well maintained, and I’ll continue working to make sure all road users around the country can enjoy the safe, world-class infrastructure they deserve.”
Roads minister Baroness Vere said: “I’m sure all drivers have felt frustrated by the potholes we see on some of our roads, which can damage our vehicles and make journeys a misery. That’s why we’re changing the law to ensure companies won’t be able to get away with poor quality roadworks for much longer.
“The changes we’re bringing in will also help to keep motorists updated with live traffic updates – easing congestion.
“This is a clear victory for motorists and all road users who will be able to enjoy smoother, safer journeys.”