BEXLEY Council has been given new powers to tackle road work disruptions caused by utility firms and highway authorities.
The London Permit Scheme allows the borough to require anyone carrying out road works to apply for a permit in advance and to set conditions on timing, co-ordination or the amount of road space to be left available to road users during the works.
Those companies who break the terms of their permit or work without a permit can be fined up to £5,000.
Regional and Local Transport Minister Norman Baker said: "I know how frustrating roadworks can be especially when there are significant amounts of time when it appears no work is taking place.
"The permit scheme will put an end to this by giving councils the powers to ensure that works are completed as quickly and efficiently as possible with minimal disruption.
"This will bring real benefits to people and I am delighted these councils have joined the rest of London in implementing the scheme."
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