NJUG, the National Joint Utilities Group, has welcomed the news that the London Permit Scheme has been delayed so that utilities can have a greater input into the plan. Commenting on the delay Richard Wakelen, CEO of the National Joint Utilities Group, said: "In NJUG’s opinion, the scheme as presented was unable to demonstrate that there would be any reduction in congestion for the travelling public in London. It therefore threatened to add to household utility bills at a very challenging time without any commensurate benefit."
Mr Wakelen continued: "I hope that TfL will now agree to meet with NJUG as the London scheme is revised, to allow us to share our expertise and ensure that London’s next submission to Government can be approved.”
The London application to run the scheme was submitted to the Government in July 2008 but has not been approved by the Department of Transport who have instead contacted Transport for London (TfL) asking for more information.
NJUG supports the Government's aims of reducing congestion and is committed to working in partnership with Government and Highway Authorities to ensure workable and effective permit schemes are brought in.
However, NJUG does not believe the London scheme, as submitted, included the necessary performance indicators.
NJUG has recently worked very effectively with Kent County Council to help them construct their Permit Scheme proposal. NJUG has previously offered similar assistance to TfL and hopes that this offer will now be taken up.
For more information go to www.njug.org.uk or contact NJUG on 0207 340 1423.
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For further editorial information or to arrange an interview please contact the NJUG press office at pressoffice@njug.org.uk or telephone 020 7340 1423.
About The National Joint Utility Group (NJUG) NJUG is the only UK industry association representing utilities on street works issues. Our full members include the Energy Networks Association (representing electricity and gas companies), Water UK (representing water companies), National Grid, BT, Virgin Media and THUS plc. Our Associate Members are Clancy Docwra, Skanska McNicholas, Balfour Beatty, Morrison, Morgan Est, NACAP, PJ Keary, First Intervention, Carillion and Enterprise. Including members through trade associations, NJUG represents thirty-eight utility companies.
NJUG is the utility arm of the Highway Authorities and Utilities Committee representing street works in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales known as HAUC (UK). Please see http://www.hauc-uk.org.uk/ for further information.
NJUG’s focus is on promoting best practice, safety, quality and co-ordination of works as well as representing utilities in discussions with Government and other stakeholders on street work issues.
Street works are essential activities carried out by electricity, water, gas and communications utilities to maintain, enhance, extend, renew and repair their networks.
URL: www.njug.org.uk