Task force to reduce impact of utility roadworks

The group has been set up to better coordinate work across the network

A task force has been set up to reduce the impact of utility roadworks in Surrey.

Surrey County Council said the aim was to drive better coordination and communication of works across the county’s road network.

Representatives from water, energy and telecoms firms agreed last week to focus on better coordination, collaborative working, and improved signage and information sharing.

Jonathan Hulley, deputy cabinet member for strategic highways said: "We need to ensure that utility works are completed quicker, with better traffic management, better coordination, and better resident communication, which is why we have formed this vital task force.”

'Frustration'

The group will meet monthly to take work forwards, the council said.

Mr Hulley said said: “Whilst we recognise that works on the highway carried out by utility companies are necessary, these works are all too often impacting negatively on Surrey road users.

“This is a huge source of frustration for our residents."

He said Surrey County Council was already working to improve over 100 roads as part of an £8.5m highways maintenance programme to prevent potholes.