Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask the Secretary of State for Transport, whether she is taking steps to support local authorities in establishing lane rental schemes.

The Government recognises that lane rental schemes have proven to be an effective way of reducing congestion from works on the busiest streets at the busiest times.  I have just approved a new scheme in East Sussex.  To support local areas who wish to apply for a lane rental scheme, the Department is updating guidance and producing templates to make the process easier. Resources are being allocated to ensure bids are assessed promptly, and officials are currently speaking to local authorities that plan to apply for lane rental.