More than 200 roadworks applications in Surrey were rejected in less than a month since the council gained new decision-making powers.

In mid-November, Surrey County Council launched a permit scheme to stop workers digging up the road without planning how to limit their impact on traffic.

The council soon blocked 237 plans and at one point dealt with over 2,500 applications in only five days.

John Furey, Surrey County Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: "Cutting roadworks hassle allows Surrey drivers to get from A to Z more easily and that boosts our local economy.

"When we do approve roadworks, our new system ensures they’re better planned and regularly inspected so we keep Surrey moving."

The scheme means the council can control the days and times of work on the roads to avoid creating too much disruption.

It is estimated this will mean up 2,400 fewer roadworks in Surrey each year, saving local businesses around £6.5 million annually.

The joint permit scheme for Surrey County Council and East Sussex County Council was approved by Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin in July and Bracknell Forest Council is now consulting on whether to join the team up.