Since the beginning of 2008 NJUG and KCC have worked together to perfect the Kent Permit Scheme to ensure that it is both workable and fair and that all permit fees are justifiable.
The Traffic Management Act (TMA) enables Local Authorities to introduce permits to provide tighter controls over the work being undertaken on the roads. This is in addition to an improved street works noticing regime which was implemented in April 2008 and gives Local Authorities the power to fine utilities for the overrunning of street works.
Lloyd Holliday, Network Performance Manager at KCC, said, “It was important to enter into a regular dialogue with NJUG to get the opinions of utilities on the practicalities of the permit scheme. NJUG members were able to offer insight and practical expertise in helping us to develop and perfect the draft Kent Permit Scheme.”
Richard Wakelen, CEO of the National Joint Utilities Group, said: “NJUG is pleased to have worked with KCC to draft this permit scheme and hopes to replicate this experience with other Local Authorities. Permits will only be a success if they are workable, practical and fair, and utilities can offer expertise to assist Local Authorities in drafting informed proposals for Government approval.”
Kent is currently undertaking its third public consultation on its draft permit scheme, focusing on specific changes to the scheme, with a deadline of 12th December 2008. Following this consultation, KCC intend to submit a permit scheme application to the Secretary of State towards the end of December 2008. Further information on the Kent Permit Scheme can be found at: www.kent.gov.uk/publications/transport-and-streets/kent-permit-scheme
For more information go to www.njug.org.uk or contact NJUG on 0207 340 1423. -ends-
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