People travelling around Southampton could soon face less disruption from roadworks after Southampton City Council received Government approval to introduce a lane rental scheme on parts of the city’s highway network.

The scheme is designed to reduce congestion and delays for residents, businesses and visitors caused by roadworks and street works on some of Southampton’s busiest roads through a charge for the time taken.

This encourages utility companies, contractors and highway authorities to carry out works at less disruptive times, work together to share road space and complete works as efficiently as possible. Half of any surplus funds raised through the scheme will be reinvested into highway maintenance in the city, with the other half available to support innovations or schemes to help minimise congestion in Southampton.

For local people, businesses and visitors, that means reduced congestion, more reliable journeys and better public transport trips. The scheme is also expected to support improvements in air quality by reducing the amount of time vehicles spend in traffic.

The Department for Transport has formally approved Southampton City Council’s application, allowing the council to begin work with partners and stakeholders preparing for the scheme’s introduction.

Councillor Jacqui Rayment, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “This scheme is about putting residents first by reducing disruption on some of our busiest roads and encouraging works to be carried out in a way that has less impact on people’s everyday lives getting to work, school, appointments or spending time with family and friends. Fewer delays will mean more reliable journeys, better bus services and a smoother experience for everyone travelling around Southampton.

“It’s also good news for our environment and our economy, helping to deliver on our goals of a greener, healthier and growing Southampton. Less time spent in traffic means cleaner air, while any money raised through the scheme will be reinvested into improving and protecting our road network for the benefit of local people.”