To seek approval for the arrangements being made for the provision of winter service during the period of 2018 through to 2023 season, as set out in the Winter Service Plan in appendix 1, the plan will be updated annually to ensure the plan is accurate and relevant to the service required by Herefordshire.

The Winter Service Plan continues to build on existing best practice and the findings of reviews that have taken place both locally and nationally. Herefordshire Council will continue to meet its duties towards the maintenance of the highway network in full and by working in partnership with Herefordshire’s communities, wherever practicable, enhance the county’s resilience to the impact of prolonged or severe winter weather. To ensure the plan remains accurate authority is sought for officers to annually update the plan; any changes proposed which significantly alter the plan priorities would be subject to further governance.

That:

(a)        The Winter Service Plan 2018/23 be approved; and

(b)        the Acting Assistant Director  (Highways and Transport) be authorised to take all operational decisions necessary to ensure the plan is refreshed on an annual basis and remains deliverable within approved budgets.

1.          Due to the legal responsibilities there are no alternative options to managing the highway network during the winter period.

2.          The Winter Service Plan could be authorised annually but due to the well-rehearsed service the authority provides, it would be deemed reasonable to delegate authority to the Acting Assistant Director (Highways and Transport) with the proviso for further authorisation as set out above.