Hampshire County Council will examine lane rental proposals designed to reduce roadworks disruption across 550 miles of the county’s busiest roads, with potential implementation by spring 2026 if approved.
Plans for a lane rental system targeting roadworks delays on Hampshire’s most congested routes will be reviewed by the County Council later this month. The scheme would impose daily charges for roadworks duration, including any overruns, across more than 550 miles of roads representing approximately 10% of Hampshire’s network.
Councillor Lulu Bowerman, Cabinet Member for Highways and Passenger Transport, will examine the detailed proposals on Monday 23 June. Should the Department for Transport grant approval, the system could launch in spring 2026.
Growing disruption concerns
Councillor Kirsty North, Cabinet Lead for Universal Services, explained the rationale: “We’re investigating innovative approaches to minimise roadworks impact and disruption for residents. As Highway Authority, we must manage network disruption whilst keeping Hampshire moving and coordinating vital infrastructure maintenance and improvement works. Recent years have witnessed a significant increase in road work permit applications across Hampshire’s network. We understand the frustration this causes, particularly on our most heavily trafficked routes, and lane rental schemes provide powerful motivation for organisations to plan effectively, complete works efficiently and minimise disruption.”
Hampshire Council to Review Food Waste Recycling Expansion Plans
Implementation timeline
The County Council approved progressing lane rental plans in January to supplement the current road permitting framework. Comprehensive proposals now outline which roads qualify as strategically critical or where roadworks and streetworks would likely generate substantial traffic delays and disruption.
Following approval, the County Council will conduct stakeholder consultation, including utility companies, throughout summer. Final recommendations will subsequently be developed before seeking formal Department for Transport authorisation, targeting spring 2026 operational commencement.
Charging structure
Fees would fluctuate based on disruption type and severity caused by works. Surplus revenue beyond basic operational expenses would be allocated exclusively to innovative projects reducing streetworks and roadworks impact. Subject to anticipated national legislation later this year, up to 50% of generated income could be redirected towards routine highway maintenance, encompassing daily repairs including pothole remediation.
National context
Lane rental systems operate across multiple UK locations and must conform to national legislation. Charges apply exclusively to the most congested and strategically vital local roads under highway authority management. Current legislation permits the County Council to impose charges reaching £2,500 daily – the statutory maximum.
Portsmouth Clean Air Zone Shows Results Despite Ongoing Challenges
