Issue - meetings

To consider a report of the Director of Economy, Transport and Environment providing an update on the changing national policy environment for transport schemes and the development of strategies and major schemes.

For the Select Committee to scrutinise a report regarding major transport schemes and strategies, in advance of its consideration for a decision by the Executive Member for Environment and Transport on the afternoon of 19th September 2017. 

The Select Committee received a report on behalf of the Director of Economy Transport and Environment regarding strategic transport funding and policy (see Item 8 in the Minute Book).

It was reported that the Housing Infrastructure Fund had been launched this summer, and at their meeting the previous week the Cabinet had approved two bids to submit for this national funding.

Hampshire County Council had been successful in developing schemes and bidding for funding when the opportunity arose. Investment would be required to continue developing schemes.

The government was also developing a highway maintenance funding stream for maintenance of the ‘major route network’ (significant roads managed by Local Authorities). The Sub National Transport Body would be giving consideration to priorities for this funding for the South East.

Some Members commented that there should be a higher priority given to cycling and walking in transport reports in support of public health aims regarding obesity.

Following questions and debate, the Chairman proposed the recommendation which was agreed:

RECOMMENDED:

The Economy Transport and Environment Select Committee support the recommendations being proposed to the Executive Member for Environment and Transport in Section 7 of the report.