Leeds, Wakefield and Kirklees councils have launched new lane rental schemes aimed at reducing disruption caused by roadworks on some of their busiest routes.
Companies carrying out roadworks on some of West Yorkshire's busiest routes could now face charges of up to £2,500 per day if the work takes place during peak periods.
New lane rental schemes were launched, 5 October, by Leeds, Wakefield and Kirklees councils following approval from the Department for Transport.
The schemes apply to utilities and other organisations carrying out work on designated roads and are intended to encourage companies to schedule work outside the busiest periods wherever possible.
The councils hope the charges will encourage organisations to complete work more efficiently, coordinate with other companies and reduce the amount of time key roads are disrupted.
Importantly, the charges will also apply to works carried out or commissioned by the three councils themselves.
Leeds, Wakefield and Kirklees have worked together to establish common principles and a consistent approach to charging. The councils say this should make the system easier for companies operating across local authority boundaries.
The schemes are also expected to help improve the reliability of public transport by protecting important bus routes, while potentially reducing carbon emissions associated with congestion and delays.
Councillor Tom Hinchcliffe, Leeds City Council's executive member for transport and planning, said the authority was taking action to keep the city moving and minimise disruption during the busiest periods.
He said working alongside neighbouring Kirklees and Wakefield councils would also provide greater fairness and consistency across the area.
The lane rental charges will not apply to road closures supporting events such as the Rob Burrow Marathon and Leeds Abbey Dash.
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