MP calls for big fines for utility firms who cause gridlock with roadworks that almost always overrun

An MP has called for utility companies to be stung with higher charges for roadworks that overrun and cause major delays for drivers facing constant gridlocks. Mark Francois, Conservative MP for Rayleigh and Wickford in Essex, put forward a bill on Monday that would hit utility firms with higher fines for causing traffic disruption with overrunning roadworks Tell us about your roadworks nightmares Are you suffering huge delays caused by repeated or overrunning roadworks near where you live? Angry motorists often complain that when they do get stuck at roadworks there often isn't anyone working there at all MP's plan to sting utility firms for slow roadworks Mark Francois 'constituency is in Essex - the county that was named 'the most dug-up in Britain' three years ago. Francois, a former local government minister, has drawn up plans for a three-pronged Roadworks Bill that he says would ease congestion caused by companies failing to hit scheduled dates to complete works. However, Mr Francois says local authorities should be given rights to object if they will cause 'unacceptable disruption' for drivers A Roadworks Bill would also prevent different companies digging up the same section of local road at different times, causing unnecessary delays for motorists Utility companies aren't being fined enough for overrunning roadworks Thirdly, he outlined how the bill would address penalties for overrunning roadworks that are often the bane of motorists' lives.