Congestion is costing UK businesses as much as £4.5 billion a year in lost working hours, according to new research published this week.

The study commissioned by Lex Autolease, a car fleet management provider, was based on survey responses from 1,041 drivers and found that workers spend an average of 70 minutes each day travelling to and from work.

The company suggested more widespread use of tele-commuting in the appropriate industries could help boost productivity and decrease congestion.

The study findings were released shortly after the latest Scottish Household Survey revealed that road congestion in Scotland is at its highest level in six years.

The number of Scottish motorists experiencing delays last year increased to 11.7 per cent.

Tim Porter, managing director of Lex Autolease, said: “Congestion is getting worse and is costing businesses millions of pounds every day in lost productivity. It is critical that the Government keeps investing in the road network to keep our workforce on the move.”

He added: “The workplace is changing rapidly, and many businesses are recognising the benefits of homeworking supported by improvements to technology such as fast broadband and video conferencing.

“Employees can enjoy increased flexibility in their working patterns and these are important steps in reducing congestion and helping businesses to become more flexible.”