Following the cabinet decision above (23 July 2020) to allocate funding for Storm Dennis priority flood repairs a decision was taken on the 22 of September 2020 by the Director of Economy and Place for the remedial works for these sites to be delivered through a new framework contract aimed at providing a ‘post’ COVID opportunity directly to local SMEs.

http://councillors.herefordshire.gov.uk/mgIssueHistoryHome.aspx?IId=50035291&Opt=0

A separate governance report will confirm the analysis of this procurement shortly. In the meantime it is recommended that two of the sites (Browns Lane and Tresseck Mill) receive remedial works through the Public Realm Contract given that these roads have had to be closed due to significant deterioration over the course of last in winter and the extended closure of the two routes is having a significant impact on local communities and presents a significant risk for affected residents.
U75235 Browns Lane is a no-through road, there are 2 properties plus access to agricultural land, the road deterioration is such that service vehicles are unable to access the properties and there is a concern that any further deterioration will prevent emergency blue light access if required.

U71000 Tresseck Mill has access onto the C1261 which is currently closed. The closure was put in place due to an accelerated deterioration following storm Dennis after initial damage which was identified earlier and required signing and barriers to keep safe, the closure requirement was following an inspection which identified the safety concerns requiring the full closure post Storm Dennis.

The access onto the C1262 is essential for local businesses (such as camping and horse dressage competitors) that need large vehicle access. This is not available at present due to the closure, these businesses are now unable to have unfettered access, which is compromising the businesses. There is a similar concern that further deterioration will prevent emergency blue light access if required.

Delivery of these two repairs through the PRC will enable works to be carried out at a pace in advance of the remaining flood repair works. The repairs are consistent with the core highway maintenance activities of the public realm contract. Works costs will be based on agreed target costs which will scrutinised and monitored by the Contract Management Team and any changes will be the subject of robust change control to ensure value for money is achieved for these repairs.