Decision details

To update on DfT’s response to the proposals for an Enhanced Partnership Agreement relating to local buses services.

Consideration was given to a report updating Members on the progress towards making the Cheshire East Enhanced Partnership (EP) Plan and Scheme documents, including an update on the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Local Transport Fund and Network Review process.

It was commented that it was disappointing to hear no further update on funding opportunities beyond 4 October 2022.  A request was made for Members to have access to the Network Review.  In response Richard Hibbert, the Head of Strategic Transport and Parking confirmed that a concise summary of the review could be circulated to Members.

A further comment was made in respect of whether there should be an amendment to the recommendation to allow the opportunity for the Chair and Vice Chair to be consulted.  The Chair reassured the Committee that as both he and the Vice Chair were Members of the EP Board, therefore they would provide that oversight as members of the Board and as part of the governance arrangements there was a requirement the Chair and Vice Chair report back to the Committee.

RESOLVED (Unanimously)

1.That it be agreed the EP Plan and EP Scheme be made in Cheshire East in accordance with the regulations and that the Director of Highways and Infrastructure and the Director of Governance and Compliance be authorised to take all steps necessary to bring the EP Plan and EP Scheme into effect.

2.That it be agreed that arrangements be made for the inaugural meeting of the EP Board in September – with subsequent meetings arranged as defined in the EP Plan.

3.That the the Director of Highways and Infrastructure be authorised to make all necessary arrangements to commence works as defined in the EP Plan and EP Scheme.

4.That the completion of a whole Network Review as required to access the final instalment of the Local Transport Fund be noted.