§ Mr. Greg KnightTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport why he does not require 24-hour working to take place on repair and maintenance work which involves lane closures on motorways.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyThe Department allows 24-hour working on major maintenance sites whenever possible. Occasionally environmental reasons preclude this. There are often practical reasons why contractors choose not to work the full hours offered. There can be difficulties in maintaining accuracy with some types of work outside daylight hours, and with supplies of materials.
Lane rental contracts provide ample incentive for contractors to complete works as quickly and efficiently as possible.