Kirklees Council to take a hard line on roadworks

A CLAMPDOWN on roadworks could be on its way – to the relief of drivers.

Kirklees Council are looking at introducing a permit scheme for utility companies who want to dig up and work on the town’s busiest roads.

If the council doesn’t think they will meet special conditions, yet to be finalised, they could be refused permission to carry out the works.

The council has already begun a formal consultation on proposals to introduce a Yorkshire Common Permit Scheme – and they want your views.

Clr David Sheard, Kirklees Council cabinet member for highways and Streetscene, said: “Many of us feel annoyed and impatient when we can’t see actual work going on at sites where there are traffic hold ups.

“The proposals for this permit scheme means that those who wish to work on the most important roads will have to apply for a permit in advance of their works.

“The permit will state when and how the job shall be done, with fixed start and finish dates rather than the open-ended nature of the existing system.

“Better planning and advance information will mean that people can plan their journeys to take account of road works.”

Only last week motorists experienced lengthy delays because of work on the A616 Woodhead Road in Lockwood near the Lockwood Scar junction. Because of a gas leak there were temporary traffic lights and emergency repairs. But frustration set in when an alternative route using Newsome Road was hit by delays because of traffic light repairs in Newsome.