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The UK Department of Transport has launched new guidelines to ensure reduction of congestion on roads and speeding up of various road construction projects.

The seven traffic advisory leaflets have been issued following a £1m research initiative between the department for transport and Transport for London. They provide cost-effective and time-saving tips for utility companies and highway authorities who are involved in carrying out work on roads.

This initiative was funded through the London Lane Rental Scheme revenues.

Transport minister Robert Goodwill said: "Delays on our roads are not only a headache for motorists but are costing our economy billions of pounds a year.

"Poorly planned roadworks can lead to substantial delays and added frustration for all road users."

"These leaflets will be an indispensable guide to those people working on our roads, providing top tips for getting the job done safely and on time.

"One technique that has been vital to cutting congestion is the Core and Vac process, sometimes known as keyhole surgery for roads. The technique, which was originally developed for gas companies in the US, allows utility companies to drill down to underground pipes and valves without causing massive damage to the road."

The minister said that the National Grid found the technique can reduce a 5 day job to half a day. It also estimated that between April 2011 and March this year, delays to the travelling public were cut by 5,670 days in London.

Transport for London managing director of surface transport Leon Daniels said: "Poorly planned roadworks can lead to substantial delays and added frustration for all road users.

"London has led the way with developing a roadworks permit scheme and the UK’s first lane rental scheme. Both these have helped to reduce the number of works taking place in peak hours by encouraging companies to work together and develop new, innovative methods.

"These new traffic advisory leaflets will help pass on valuable lessons to allow utility companies and other highway authorities across the UK to reduce congestion and keep the UK moving."

Image: The new leaflets would help reduce road congestion on UK roads and speed up construction work. Photo: courtesy of UK Department of Transport.