Agenda item

The Committee considered a report of the Director of Environment and Transport, which provided an update on activity taking place on the highway that fell within the duties of the County council as the Local Highway Authority.  The Committee also received a presentation as part of this item. A copy of the report marked ‘agenda item 11’ and the presentation slides is filed with these minutes.

Arising from the discussion the following points were made:

i)               Members raised concerns regarding temporary traffic lights and the length of time roads remained closed. A member suggested this was particularly frustrating when no works appeared to be being carried out. It was noted that this was a national issue that had been exacerbated by changes in how the sector now operated. Previously multi skilled gangs had been used who were able to carry out works on multiple assets. However, utility companies now used segregated contractors so when issues arose with more than one asset running under a section of the highway, which might not become apparent until works started on site, different contractors had be to be brought in at short notice which caused delay. The Council, along with many other authorities had made representations to the utilities sector on the impact this was having and the need for change.

ii)              Members noted with concern the 36% growth in permit applications and the increased resources needed to respond to these in a co-ordinated way.  Whilst some of this growth linked to the rising number of developments and the need to connect these to existing infrastructure, secondary faults arising from aging infrastructure were also common requiring more repairs or replacement.  Members noted that, for example, Severn Trent Water had increased its growth programme five-fold.

iii)             Following the introduction of improved internal processes,  planned works in the highway were better controlled and co-ordinated.  However, there would always be the need for emergency works that would have to begin at short notice. Utility companies had a statutory responsibility to maintain their assets and they did not therefore have to inform the Authority prior to starting emergency works on the network and closing roads.

iv)            It was confirmed that concurring work were usually delayed due to logistical difficulties and that, although the duration of works was challenged by the Authority, this had to be balanced against the need to ensure  those undertaking works and other road users were kept safe.

v)             Members praised the national one.network website which was updated regularly and provided information on all road issues such as closures or delays on the network. A Member commented, however that there was not always an end date for scheduled works detailed on the one.network website officers were requested to look into the reasons for this. In response to a suggestion for additional signage on site, it was noted that this was not considered as an option as this would cause additional work for a small Inspectors Team across Leicestershire.

vi)            In response to questions raised, the Director confirmed that all statutory undertakers were responsible for reinstating the highway following works being carried out.  The Council’s Inspection Team reviewed such works immediately upon completion.  If not carried out adequately, the Council had the power to issue a financial penalty notice and to seek further reinstatement.  The Council did not however, have the resources to carry out works in default.  It also did not receive any additional funding to redress the negative impact patchwork repairs had on the overall lifespan of the road.

RESOLVED:

(a)  That the report and presentation now provided be noted and welcomed;

(b)  That the Director of Environment and Transport be requested to investigate why it appeared there was not always an end date for scheduled works detailed on the one.network website and to report back to the Members after the meeting.