Lane rental surplus fund
About the fund
The Lane Rental Surplus Fund generates money from fees charged by the East Sussex Lane Rental Scheme. It uses this money to support the highway network. The scheme is designed to reduce disruption from roadworks. After covering costs, we reinvest any extra funds. These funds go into projects that support the goal of reducing disruption.
How does it work?
- Send a brief outline of your proposal to the Lane Rental team
- Find a sponsor from the Lane Rental Surplus Group (LRSG)
- Submit your application at least 4 weeks before the next LRSG meeting
- Your proposal is reviewed by the LRSG
What can the fund be used for?
The fund supports projects that reduce disruption and improve how roadworks are managed.
This may include:
- new methods or technology to reduce disruption
- trials of innovative products or approaches
- measures to improve traffic flow
- projects that reduce the need for future roadworks
- infrastructure that allows access to utilities without excavation
- improvements to safety, air quality or noise linked to roadworks
Who can apply?
We invite organisations to apply for projects that align with the goals of the scheme.
This may include:
- utility companies
- contractors
- local authorities
- transport organisations
- other relevant partners
What are we looking for?
Projects should clearly show how they will:
- reduce disruption to road users
- improve journey reliability
- support better planning and coordination of works
- encourage new or improved ways of working
- provide benefits for residents and businesses in East Sussex
Proposals should also show value for money and deliver lasting benefits.
Before you apply
Contact the Lane Rental team on lanerental@eastsussex.gov.uk
Share a brief outline of your proposal before submitting your application.
This allows us to review your idea and provide early guidance. Contacting the team first will help you shape your proposal and boost your chances of success.
Lane Rental Surplus Group (LRSG)
All applications must be supported by a sponsor from the Lane Rental Surplus Group (LRSG).
The LRSG consists of representatives who review and oversee the allocation of funding.
Your sponsor must:
- support your proposal
- be willing to present it at an LRSG meeting if you are unable to attend the meeting yourself
If you do not have a sponsor, you should contact the Lane Rental team using the email above.
We can help you identify a suitable sponsor.
How to apply
After discussing your proposal and securing a sponsor:
- read the guidance notes
- read terms and conditions
- complete the application form
- submit your application by the stated deadline
Submit applications at least 4 weeks before the next LRSG meeting to be considered
To find out the next application deadline, please contact lanerental@eastsussex.gov.uk
LRSG meetings are currently held once a month.
This may be reviewed depending on the number of applications received.
How are applications assessed?
Applications are reviewed by the Lane Rental Surplus Group.
They are assessed based on:
- how well they support the aims of the scheme
- the level of disruption they are likely to reduce
- value for money
- how deliverable the project is
How is the funding used?
In line with government guidance:
- income first covers the cost of running the scheme
- at least 50% of surplus funding is used for highway maintenance
- remaining funding is allocated through this fund
All funding is reinvested in the East Sussex highway network.
Contact us
If you would like to discuss a proposal or need support with your application, please contact lanerental@eastsussex.gov.uk
How does the scheme help?
The fund reduces roadwork disruptions and improves journeys across East Sussex.