To present the proposed allocation and planned expenditure of the 2026/27 Local Transport Grant and set out how the funding will be used to deliver Herefordshire Council’s priority transport programmes. The report outlines the recommended investment approach for maintaining a safe, resilient and accessible transport network, and seeks formal approval from the Chief Operating Officer and the Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure to proceed.

That:

a)     The proposed allocation of the 2026/27 Local Transport Grant is approved, enabling delivery of the council’s priority transport programmes, including statutory highway maintenance, road safety interventions and active travel improvements;

b)     Authority is delegated to the Chief Operating Officer, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure, to take all operational decisions necessary to implement and vary the allocations of the approved programme within the available grant funding and in accordance with the council’s governance and procurement procedures; the budget holder is able to vary the plan within the budget;

1.               Do not approve the proposed 2026/27 Local Transport Grant allocation
This option was discounted because it would prevent the council from undertaking essential statutory and high?priority transport activities. Without approval, the council would be unable to commit funding to core programmes such as highway maintenance, network safety, and active travel schemes. This would lead to deterioration of the network, increased safety risks, and potential non?compliance with national grant conditions. Failure to utilise the grant effectively may also undermine the council’s position in future funding allocations.

2.     Delay approval until later in the financial year
This option was discounted because delaying approval would significantly shorten the delivery window for 2026/27 programmes. Early approval allows time for scheme design, procurement, mobilisation and coordinated delivery. A delay would increase the risk of under?spend, contractor availability issues, and reduced programme effectiveness. It would also constrain the council’s ability to manage seasonal works efficiently, particularly those that must be delivered in specific weather or daylight conditions.