New proposals aimed at helping reduce disruption by ensuring that road works are carried out efficiently, safely and to the highest standards, were unveiled today by Transport Minister Rosie Winterton.

The proposals would see qualified workers being reassessed every five years to ensure their knowledge of the latest requirements and best practice is up-to-date. The move comes as the Government is also introducing new measures to help councils to limit the delays and congestion caused by road works.

Winterton said: "Better trained road workers will mean more road works completed correctly the first time round, saving the public from further disruption and an estimated £14 million a year in repair costs for sub-standard work and associated costs such as congestion.

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"We are already giving councils new powers to better co-ordinate road works and help cut disruption. Now we are taking action to help make sure that these works are carried out safely and to the highest possible standards by qualified workers.

"The reassessment process for workers I am unveiling today will mean workers and supervisors will have to keep up to date with the latest techniques and best practice if they are to remain qualified."

From 1 April, councils will be able to insist that utility companies give longer notice periods before starting road works - improving co-ordination and making it possible to prevent multiple works in the same area at the same time.

Councils will also be able to impose conditions on works, such as a ban on rush hour working and will also be to operate a permit scheme.

The new proposals on training would mean that from 2010 those carrying out road works in England will have to pass a test at an approved assessment centre every five years. At the moment qualified workers simply have to complete a re-registration form and pay a fee to remain on the Street Work Qualifications Register (SWQR).

(CD/JM)