Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask Her Majesty's Government why in the consultation Street and road works: Street Manager and updates to permit schemes’, published on 20 July, where it is proposed that the footway, footpath or verge is used for the placement of apparatus underground, that no requirement for the alternative provision for walkers, people with disabilities and parents with young children is set out.

The consultation document invited views on changes to permit scheme conditions relating to the placement of apparatus in the footway. This proposal was based on existing good practice that has been used by utility companies for some time, and recommends the placement of apparatus in the footway where possible to reduce the impact of works on congestion. We did not suggest any changes that would have compromised safe access during works for those that use the highway, including pavements.

We are currently analysing the responses provided and will publish a formal response shortly.