The Cabinet Member with the Leisure and Local Environment Portfolio introduced the report of the Director of Economic Growth and Neighbourhood Services (previously circulated) requesting that consideration be given to developing a Permit Scheme and consulting on the proposed scheme to improve the management, coordination and operation of road works.
The submitted report stated that under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 and the Traffic Management Act (TMA) 2004, all highways authorities had a duty to effectively coordinate all activities on the highway to ensure the safe and expeditious movement of traffic, pedestrians and vulnerable road users; the Council currently managed the coordination of roadworks through a noticing system; the TMA 2004 allowed highway authorities to introduce a permit scheme; outlined the key features, benefits and feasibility of introducing a permit scheme; and the financial and legal implications.
Discussion ensued on the additional controls available on roadworks available through the introduction of the permit system.
RESOLVED – (a) That the development of a Permit Scheme and the consultation on the proposed scheme to improve the management, coordination and operation of road works, be approved.
(b) That a further report be considered by Cabinet upon the completion of feasibility and consultation to include the business case, resource requirements and to agree the detail of the scheme to be implemented, including the level of charges.
REASONS – (a) To fulfil duties under the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991(NRSWA) and the Traffic Management Act 2004 (TMA).
(b) Improve the management and coordination of roadworks.
(c) Comply with requests from the Secretary of State to introduce a Permit Scheme.