The proposed scheme would see utility companies and other organisations carrying out work on Enfield’s roads charged a daily fee for occupying key highways during peak hours.
Enfield Council has announced plans to introduce a Lane Rental Scheme aimed at reducing traffic congestion and minimising disruption caused by roadworks across the borough.
The proposed scheme would see utility companies and other organisations carrying out work on Enfield’s roads charged a daily fee for occupying key highways during peak hours. The goal is to incentivise these companies to schedule their activities during less disruptive times, helping to ease congestion and improve traffic flow for residents, businesses, and commuters.
The scheme will focus on major roads in the borough that are most prone to congestion and essential for keeping traffic moving. Fees will only apply during peak times to encourage quicker completion of roadworks with minimal inconvenience. Funds generated from the charges will be reinvested into improving Enfield’s road network, ensuring infrastructure is maintained and enhanced for long-term sustainability.
Councillor Rick Jewell, Cabinet Member for Transport and Waste, explained the rationale behind the initiative:
“By introducing the Lane Rental Scheme, we aim to reduce traffic by encouraging companies to carry out works at times that have the least impact on our residents and businesses. Recently, there has been major disruption in Enfield along our key roads because of utility companies’ roadworks. We’ve all felt the impact of this during peak hours.
“We recognise the need to improve journeys across the borough. We believe our new proposals will ensure utility companies work with us and residents. This is one example of many showing our commitment to building a cleaner, greener, and better borough.”
“Recently, there has been major disruption in Enfield along our key roads because of utility companies’ road works. We’ve all felt the impact of this during peak hours.”
-Rick Jewell, Councillor
The Lane Rental Scheme has been developed following extensive consultation with key stakeholders, including transport authorities and utility providers. Enfield Council has also collaborated with the London Borough Lane Rental Strategy Group to align its proposal with similar schemes already operational across the capital.
The initiative is currently awaiting approval from the Department for Transport. Once the green light is given, the scheme will be rolled out after a four-week trial period, during which no charges will be applied. This trial will give companies time to adjust their schedules before full implementation.
Once operational, the Lane Rental Scheme is expected to significantly improve traffic conditions in Enfield, reduce delays, and ensure a more sustainable and efficient transport network for the future.
