Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Service Manager for Network Operations.

The committee received and considered a report of the Service Manager for Network Operations, which provided the opportunity for the committee to evaluate and scrutinise the contractual governance system and performance of the Dorset Highways Works Term Service Contract in 2020-21.

Councillors considered the issues arising from the report and during discussion, the following areas were covered:

·            Climate implications were considered and further information provided on the related key performance indicators (KPIs) for the service

·            Clarification was provided in respect of the contract valuation and procurement process of the contract

·            An overview of the 10 KPIs within the contract was provided and detail of how these were assessed

·            Value for money issues were discussed

·            Risk areas for the service were considered, which included price fluctuations and type of vehicle used, which could affect the type of materials used

·            A review of suppliers was undertaken each year

·            Further information was provided in respect of the workings of the Operational Board and Strategic Board

·            The contract management structure was considered and the need to balance cost, quality, time and health and safety issues

·            In addition to Dorset Council highways, utility companies also undertook works on the highway network.  Dorset Council officers operating under the New Road and Street Works Act enforced compliance of the return of the highway to the original condition

·            The Council was looking at opportunities for reciprocal trade

·            Opportunities to improve the response rate for public satisfaction surveys were being looked into

·            The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic was noted

·            The Portfolio Holder for Highways, Travel and Environment noted that comments would be taken on board to see where improvements could be made.

The Chairman thanked officers and partners for their work and achievements in this area.