BCP Council (Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole) says it is powerless to stop roadworks taking place, even if they are likely to cause major delays. Under current legislation, BCP Council cannot refuse roadworks permit applications from utility companies simply because the works would cause delays, says the Bournemouth Echo.
BCP councillor Andy Hadley said:
“Roadworks are frustrating for everyone: especially after summer holidays and as residents return to the school-run
“I want to be clear: we don’t want residents to be stuck in traffic – we want journeys to be convenient for everyone, no matter how they travel. There is never an ideal time for any road to close but we have to strike a balance: residents rightly want infrastructure and services to be improved.
“Utility companies are responsible for around 80 per cent of roadworks in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole – including the current works at Longfleet Road.
“We cannot refuse a permit application simply because the works would cause delays and having such little influence over works on our road network doesn’t feel fair – for our communities, for motorists, or for us as a local authority.”
Cllr Hadley said the existing laws restrict the council’s control and blur public understanding about who is responsible for delays.
He continued:
“There’s often a perception that BCP Council is solely responsible for road works in the area: when they take place, how long for, and what work gets carried out. The reality, though, is that under current legislation local authorities have little say on the works that take place on their roads.”
(Picture: Yay Images)
