Agenda item

To Consider the update on Transport for the North’s work to develop recommendations for investment in the Strategic Road Network (SRN) and seek comments from the Board on recommendations for the future RIS programme.

Lead:  Owen Wilson

6.1          Members received the report of the Head of Major Roads who then highlighted the key point in his report.

6.2          Cllr Swinburn commented that it is important that the road improvement strategy is in place and that it is followed to make sure that everything works.

6.3          Mr Nick Harris explained that the reports referred to by the executive are ready to be published and emphasised that they are focused on outcomes.  He commented that whilst in some case it is a road solution, in others it maybe a mixture of solutions is required.  He reflected that whilst there is a lot of focus on the big schemes there are many small projects that arguably matter more locally and regionally. He told the Board that once the reports are published he will be happy to return to Board to discuss them further.

6.4          Cllr Duncan requested clarity on the Secretary of State’s statement on 9 March.  He said that his understanding of what he said is that all RIS 3 projects have now slipped into RIS 4 which represents a significant delay. He wished to raise awareness and push the case on this and express concern about further delay on some key schemes across the country. 

6.5          Mayor Driscoll explained his concerns about a number of schemes that have come forward in recent years as their design is locking in a certain way of transport for the future.  He provided the example of roundabouts where there are no bus priority measures. and highlighted the importance of improving public transport infrastructure. He added that work needs to be “future proof” schemes being taken forward and highlighted the importance of local areas have final sign off on any planned works as this will engage businesses and communities in a way which National Highways cannot.

6.6          Mayor Rotheram stated the need to do something with transport infrastructure to address road congestion.  He added that something needs to be done about the cost of putting freight onto rail and suggested that Government intervention is needed on this matter.

6.7          Cllr Gittins suggested that innovations on ways to improve the network should also be included.

6.8          In response to Members the Head of Major Roads informed the Board that a piece of work on the Strategic Road Network in Urban areas framework has been done but not yet published and TfN will be supporting this work. He explained that clarity on funding is being sought.  

Resolved:

1)   That Board endorses Transport for the North’s approach to preparing recommendations for RIS as set out in the report.

2)   That Board notes comments from the Scrutiny committee, reflected in the report.

3)   That responsibility be delegated to the Board Chair and Vice Chair for approving Transport for the North’s response to public consultation on the National Highways SRN Initial Report, Route Strategy reports and ‘Connecting the Country’ vision.

4)   That responsibility be delegated to the Board Chair and Vice Chair for approving Transport for the North’s response to public consultation on the National Networks National Policy Statement (NNNPS).