Wakefield Council introduces lane rental schemes to minimise road disruption
Wednesday, August 05, 2026
Wakefield Council is launching a Lane Rental Scheme which will see companies charged for carrying out work on their busiest roads during the busiest times.
Later this year, the Council will charge companies, including utilities, as much as £2,500 per day if they operate on key routes during the busiest times of day.
“We know that road works across the district cause delays and disruption to drivers. By having the power to charge for these works, we expect to minimise that disruption.
“A more reliable and free-flowing road network supports our economy, connects people and businesses, and makes Wakefield a better place to live and work.”
Cllr Keith Anderson
Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Planning
The aim of Lane Rental Schemes is to reduce the impact of work on the highway. It encourages organisations to schedule works outside peak periods and work more efficiently to minimise disruption.
Wakefield, Leeds and Kirklees Councils have worked together and each secured Department for Transport approval for their schemes.
Along with adopting a consistent approach to charging and common principles, they are launching their schemes at the same time to make it easier for organisations applying to carry out work. The consistent approach will also help iron out any issues when planning cross-border work.
Alongside reducing disruption and delays during peak times, the schemes should help improve local air quality and improve the reliability of public transport by protecting key bus routes.
Charges applied under Lane Rental Schemes also apply to the host Council, demonstrating their commitment to limiting disruption by carrying out works efficiently on their own highways network.
Find out more at https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/roads-and-travel/roads/streetworks/wakefield-lane-rental-scheme