UK Transport Minister Sadiq Khan said he plans to increase penalties for utility companies who do not finish their roadworks on time, which causes disruption.

The charges could be increased to £25,000, up from the current maximum daily charge of £2,500.

The minister has also proposed a charge for companies carrying out work on the busiest routes where disruption affects the most people.

The plans include good practice guidance for councils and utility companies to ensure that those affected most by streetworks disruption are informed properly.

Khan said that each year roadworks cost the country £4.2bn.

“We want to ensure that utility companies and local authorities are doing everything they can to reduce disruption, whether this means working with bus operators to ensure they have enough notice to plan alternative routes or improving communication with commuters and local residents affected by road works,” Khan said.