Ealing Council has launched a public consultation on plans to introduce a lane rental scheme on some of the borough’s busiest roads, with the aim of reducing congestion caused by roadworks.
Under the proposals, utility companies and other organisations would be charged a daily fee for carrying out works on key routes. Charges would vary depending on how heavily a road is used, with the council saying the scheme is designed to encourage better planning, quicker completion of works and coordination between companies to avoid repeated disruption.
The consultation is open to residents, businesses and road users and runs until midnight on Monday 23 February 2026. A map and full list of the roads included in the proposal are available as part of the consultation at:
https://www.ealing.gov.uk/info/201042/current_consultations/3570/ealing_lane_rental_consultation.
The council said the proposals support its transport strategy and align with the Mayor of London’s plans to expand lane rental schemes across the capital. If approved, Ealing Council expects to work with Transport for London and neighbouring boroughs to create a more consistent London-wide approach.
Councillor Paul Driscoll, the council’s cabinet member for climate action, said: “The proposal is about making day-to-day travel easier for everyone. While roadworks are a necessity, disruption should be kept to a minimum where possible.”
He said: “By asking companies to plan better and finish faster, we can cut delays, support local businesses and help make our borough cleaner and greener.”
A report will be published after the consultation, with final approval required from the Department for Transport before the scheme can be introduced.
