PLANS to impose bigger fines for roadworks which overrun have been praised by a Kirklees Highways councillor.

Transport Minister Sadiq Khan yesterday announced proposals for councils to charge utility companies up to £25,000 for every day work overruns. Companies are currently fined up to £2,500 for each extra day.

But Mr Khan set out proposals for a tougher inspection regime giving councils more powers to charge utility companies for inspecting roadworks in their streets.

Utility firms will not be permitted to pass the new costs, which includes inspectors’ fees, on to their customers.

Mr Khan said: “There is no excuse for those companies who allow their works to drag on for longer than they should, causing inconvenience and frustration for the travelling public.

“The new charges and tougher inspection regime will provide a strong incentive for utilities to finish works on time or pay for the disruption they cause.”

Clr Peter McBride, who has responsibility for transport in Kirklees, said: “We know the roads are constantly disrupted by utility companies. We have enough problems with the consequence of the ice and snow.

“Some of these companies have been too relaxed in the past. With that kind of penalty the companies will be keen to get work done on time”.