To update the Committee on the progress of developing a Transport Asset Management Plan (TAMP) to improve long term planning of investment in the transport network.

The Committee received an update on the progress of developing a Transport Asset Management Plan (TAMP) to improve long term planning of investment in the transport network.

The Acting Head of Highways and Transportation reported that the Transport Asset Management was defined as a ‘strategic approach which helped identify the optimal allocation of resources for the management, operation and enhancement of the highways infrastructure to meet the current and future needs of users.’ He explained that the Local Transport Plan (LTP) 2006/7 to 2010/11 included a commitment to develop a Transport Asset Management Plan (TAMP) in recognition of the challenge and the need to continue improving delivery of the vital local service.

Development of the TAMP began in autumn 2007 and included an extensive public consultation exercise which would end 29th February 2008.  A seminar for all Council Members had been held on 12th February when views on a number of key elements of the transport network were expressed.

The response to the consultation, Members views, including those of Parish Councils, would contribute to the development of ‘levels of service’ for transport assets.  These will be clear statements of the performance of the asset in terms understandable to the customers. This work will lead to the development of ‘lifecycle management plans’, a key element of the TAMP the improvement plan.  The improvement plan will bring together a number of actions for ongoing improvement and will identify the further work required to improve the quality of the TAMP and more importantly the long term planning of the service delivery.  A first draft of the TAMP was due in April 2008 with a final document expected in May 2008.

The Committee debated the following themes:

The asset maintenance, – Responding to questions concerning street lighting the Committee noted that, in broad terms, the service were looking to upgrade the asset if possible.  There was no specific budget for an improvement programme and therefore improvements would be sought through the planning process.  The Committee noted the need to balance adequate light levels for safety without causing light pollution.  Responding to a suggestion concerning reducing the level of highway maintenance to promote slower driving, it was noted that accident prevention, and therefore improved maintenance and signage, was a high priority for the Council and was included as a Local Area Agreement indicator.  With regard to the overall service delivery, concern was raised that the Service Delivery Review, being the subject of a later agenda item, should not have an adverse effect on asset maintenance.

Highway drainage – Questioned on the clearance of culverts and bridges the Acting Head of Highways and Transportation reported that while there was no specific budget for this, bridge work was contained in the LTP and the Land Draining Engineer worked to address any problems.  Complex issues arose concerning land owner responsibilities.  Comment was made that despite recent Highway Agency works on the A49, drainage problems still occurred which the Acting Head of Highways and Transportation undertook to raise with the Highways Agency.  The Service advised colleagues in Planning concerning highway and drainage issues arising from planning applications.

HGV Routes – Members commented that following recent highway diversions for works on the A49 and the increased use of Satellite Navigation systems an increased number of HGVs were using narrow country lanes. Concern was expressed that adequate signage be provided indicating HGV routes.  It was noted that the Council worked with the Freight Partnership to encourage the proper management of routes.  An alternative option could be the imposition of lorry bans from certain roads.

Highway Signage – Comment was made concerning Streetscene and the urbanising of rural locations by inappropriate usage of signage.  The Committee noted that a policy on illegal signs was being developed and the issues of ‘A’ board advertising signs would also be looked at.

Speed Restrictions – The Committee noted that the LTP set out the policy on speed restrictions, particularly in villages and at schools.  The Cabinet Member (Highways & Transportation) informed the Committee that an innovative part-time 20 mph scheme was being piloted at Sutton St Nicholas School.

RESOLVED: That the report be noted and;

a)                  the Director of Environment convey the concern of this Committee to the Executive in relation to the Service Delivery Review efficiency proposals and any possible adverse effect on service delivery; and

b)                 the Cabinet Member (Highways and Transportation) consider a more environmentally friendly signage scheme for rural areas and in villages in particular.

At this point the Committee adjourned for 5 minutes and reconvened at 12.15pm