Issue - meetings

To receive a report on the first six months of the new contact with Ringway Jacobs

Consideration was given to an update on the progress made during the first six months of the highways services contact with Ringway Jacobs. It was reported that that the annual value of the contract was £15million, however this year, it was closer to £17/18million due to additional work being undertaken.

With regard to potholes, it was noted that due to the introduction of a Velocity Patcher, it was now possible to fill around 500/600 potholes per week, however, it was only suitable for treatment on rural roads.

Members questioned whether or not there had been an increase in claims against the council due to poor quality road surfaces, Mr Averill stated that claims were at the same level as in the winter and that the authority is responsible for all road defects, even those undertaken by utility companies. Members agreed that more should be done to inspect the works of utility companies and reclaim any costs due to defective works. Mr Averill informed the Committee that the possibility of introducing a permit scheme was being investigated which would enable the authority to charge for inspections.

It was agreed that as highways is an important issue to members of the public, Councillors and Town and Parish Councillors need to be kept informed of the programme of works, to enable them to advise constituents accordingly.

It was reported that there was a delay to the works due to be undertaken on the M6 and A500, which was the responsibility of the Midlands Highways Agency. This in turn was delaying the commencement of works on the Basford Estate. Councillor Menlove highlighted that this issue no longer fell within his remit; however he was happy to progress this with the relevant Portfolio Holder and officers.

The Committee agreed that it would like to consider a report on traffic calming at a future meeting.

RESOLVED

1.    That the progress be noted and a further report be received by the Committee at a later date.

2.    That a report on traffic calming measures be considered by the Committee at a later date.

3.    That all Councillors and Town and Parish Councillors receive the schedule of works on a regular basis.

4.    That Midlands Highway Agency be requested to commence works on the M6/A500 as a matter of urgency.