Issue - meetings

To consider a report by the Lead Member for Environment, Roads and Parks.

The Committee considered a report by the Lead Member for Natural and Built Environment regarding proposals for the Capital Highways forward programme, which included maintenance programmes across different asset groups as well as proposed Highway Improvement programmes. A self-assessment submission to the Department for Transport was also required by 1 February 2019 for £2.3m of incentivised funding.  In relation to proposed schemes for Christchurch, recommendations were also being made to the Bournemouth Christchurch and Poole Shadow Executive.  Due to timescales this mater had not been considered by the Dorset County Council Cabinet and the Shadow Executive Committee had been asked for a decision directly.

The report was welcomed by members as a comprehensive outline of schemes which would need to be revisited as the programme developed, and one which was visible for the public to view what was planned for Dorset over the next couple of years.  The hard work and commitment of Cllr Daryl Turner as Lead Member was also highlighted in championing the development of the forward programme.

Decision

That the Capital Highways Forward Programme, as set out in the appendices of the Lead Members’ report, be approved.

Reason for Decision

Effective asset management required a clear forward capital programme to be developed according to a consistent set of principles and criteria. The County Council’s approach as set out in the approved Highways Asset Management Plan satisfied the criteria in the Department for Transport self-assessment process, contributing to the Council securing the maximum incentivised funding. This forward programme was subject to consultation ahead of programming and construction.