This scheme started on 4th March 2020 with the intention of:
- Less disruption on the road network.
- Better to overall network management.
- Less delays to the travelling public.
- Less costs to businesses caused by delays.
- Promotion of a safer environment.
- Lower carbon emissions.
Roadworks and activities on our highways can reduce the amount street available to traffic and pedestrians. This can cause problems for businesses and local residents. The scale of disruption is different depending on the type of activities and the capacity of the street. Activities where the traffic flow is close to or exceeds the physical capacity of the street can cause congestion, disruption and delays.
The scheme will improve the strategic and operational management of the road network. Better planning, scheduling and management of activities will minimise disruption to any people using the road or pavement. We will be able to use it to co-ordinate activities throughout the highway network. This will make sure disruption to those competing for space or time in the street, including traffic, can be reduced in a positive and constructive way.
What has changed?
Before, statutory undertakers, primarily Utility companies had rights to dig up and place their apparatus in the street. Subject to compliance with the notification requirements in the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (NRSWA).
Part 3 of the Traffic Management Act 2004 and associated Regulations (2007) gave Councils the power to establish a Permit Authority and operate a Permit Scheme. This needs statutory undertakers (and Highway and Transport Authorities) to apply for a Permit before doing these works.
Activities that need a permit
- Breaking up or resurfacing any street.
- Opening the carriageway or cycleway, of traffic-sensitive streets at traffic sensitive times.
- Any form of temporary traffic regulation order/notice or the suspension of pedestrian crossing facilities.
- Reducing the lanes available on a carriageway of three or more lanes.
- Reducing the width of the existing carriageway of a traffic-sensitive street at a traffic sensitive time.
If any of these apply to your activity, please read:
Application and conditions
You can make an application for a Permit through an electronic, compliant IT system.
We have adopted the nationally agreed Permit Scheme Conditions, developed and approved by the Highway Authorities and Utility Committee (England), as our standard conditions, including referencing.
Fees and benefits
Fees are applicable to any approved Permit. Details of the charges can be found in the Permit Scheme Fees Policy and Table.
A background explanation of the fees is found in the Permit Scheme Cost Matrix. We will monitor and review our fees internally on a yearly basis.
A Cost Benefit Analysis was prepared to measure the costs and benefits to the local economy and society prior to deciding to introduce or modify the Permit Scheme.
For a copy of the Cost Benefit Analysis or Cost Matrix document, email: Streetworks@calderdale.gov.uk.
Legislation and consultation
Part 3 of the Traffic Management Act 2004 (TMA) introduced Permit Schemes as a new way in which we can manage activities in the public highway.
Formal consultation regarding the proposed modification to the Calderdale Council Permit Scheme ran for a period of 30 working days beginning on the 11th October 2019. The Permit Scheme Consultation Report was produced at the end of that process.
Contact
For advice on the scheme or to discuss any immediate work you need to carry out, please contact:
- Streetworks
- Email: streetworks@calderdale.gov.uk