Roadworks

Lynne Featherstone
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport if he will make a statement on overstay charges for utility companies in relation to works undertaken on minor roads.

Gillian Merron
The Government have recently consulted on proposed changes to the level and structure of charges for unreasonably prolonged occupation of the highway by statutory undertakers, including those for works on minor roads. The results are currently being analysed.

Lynne Featherstone
To ask the Secretary of State for Transport what consultations he has undertaken with local authorities on future fee levels for permit schemes for streetworks; and if he will make a statement.

Gillian Merron
In developing the proposals for future fee levels for permit schemes, a series of workshops were held with representatives from local highway authorities during summer 2006. Discussions were also held with representatives from utility companies. A twelve-week consultation on this issue and other proposals for permit schemes is currently taking place, with responses invited by 26 February 2007.