A consultation has been launched by the government on delegating powers for approving street works to local authorities.

Permit schemes allow utility companies, their contractors and those carrying out roadworks to conduct their business. Currently, councils are required to submit an application to the transport secretary and have this approved before work can begin.

The government is proposing to alter this so that local authorities would be able to approve permit schemes they develop for their roads from April 2015, by issuing an order.

A robust business case would still need to be drawn up by councils, including a cost-benefit analysis and a consultation with affected parties.

Proposed changes to the existing arrangements include the introduction of a standard set of conditions to be used across permit schemes, which outline how and when works are carried out.

In addition, the Department for Transport has suggested raising the incentive for work to be carried out during quieter periods.

The six-week consultation, which could reduce delays on utility projects, runs until September 25th 2014.