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Roadworks are often frustrating for road users. They can
cause short-term delays, and therefore more stress for drivers and
passengers.
But roadworks are also essential to keep roads users safe and to
improve journeys in the long run.
So we try to get the balance right - between minimal disruption
and the need to regularly maintain and improve roads. We do this
by:
- regularly checking and maintaining roads - so that we can catch
any problems before they will need more major work, causing more
disruption and cost
- scheduling roadworks for the least busy periods - so that the
roadworks will cause the least disruption
- telling you about roadworks in advance - so that you can plan
your journeys; to leave more time for your journey, or work in a
different way
Why are roadworks necessary?
There are more vehicles than ever on our roads. And more
vehicles means more wear and tear. The amount of traffic also means
that keeping the roads in the best possible condition is more vital
than ever for road safety.
Roadworks are essential to the safety, efficiency and comfort of
journeys. They also keep roads in use for longer, which keeps the
burden on the taxpayer as low as possible.
How do we plan and manage roadworks?
We try to minimise the impact on the road user. We have to
maintain our network of roads for tomorrow, but we also have to
keep traffic moving today.
Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance, such as work on a road surface, keeps roads
usable and safe for longer. Without these regular roadworks, many
roads would need to be completely dug up - causing major work,
disruption and delay. Major work also means more cost to the
council tax payer.
Choosing the right time for the roadworks
When we plan work on the roads, we think about all the factors
that will affect traffic levels. These include school term dates
and tourist seasons.
We also think about whether we can get the work done at
night-time, when there is much less traffic on the roads. We would
only consider this if it wouldn't disturb local residents.
To help us schedule the work in the best way, there are regular
meetings between Kent County Council, other local authorities,
utility companies, the emergency services and local transport
operators.
These meetings help us decide the best time to carry out the
work. They also help us decide what works can be carried out at the
same time - so that, for example, a road would only need to be dug
up once.
Emergencies are inevitable - no matter how well we plan. When
these happen, our priority is to make a road safe as quickly as
possible. We inform the local media, and where necessary get
diversion routes and signs in place immediately.
We also get the information on this website as soon as
possible.
Keeping you informed
If road users know about roadworks in advance, they have an
opportunity change their journey times, or choose a different route
or means of transport for that period.
So we aim to tell businesses, customers and motorists about any
major works in advance. We do this through:
- warning signs at each location to direct the public and provide
a helpline number for any queries
- a database of roadworks on this website
- information in the local media
- letter drops to any affected properties
For major projects, there may be a public consultation
exercise. |