Draft Regulation 18 Sandwell Local Plan
Network Management
11.53 Sandwell Council is committed to making the best use of its budgets and advocates an asset management approach for the maintenance of its highway network, to help deliver the best long-term outcomes for local communities.
Policy STR7 – Network Management
- Depending on the location of new development, the deployment of advanced and smart technologies that allow the public to plan their journeys more effectively may be appropriate, for example providing real time travel information and satellite navigation systems, Variable Message Signs (VMS) along congested parts of the network and digital sensors / cameras to monitor traffic and collect data on traffic patterns for future planning.
- All new developments that impact the existing highway network, or which result in a new asset to be adopted by the Local Highway Authority, may be subject to fees and obligations for the maintenance of the highway network as part of a relevant legal agreement
Justification
11.54 Much of the highway network in Sandwell is constrained by the urban fabric resulting in narrow roads and footways. In many cases the overall highway width is such that there is limited scope to accommodate infrastructure dedicated to specific modes or groups of vehicles. Therefore, the use of advanced technology to help manage the use of road space will be vital to ensuring that maximum benefit can be derived from the asset.
11.55 However, where development includes the provision of new infrastructure, including dedicated infrastructure for cyclists, buses etc., there will be a need to provide for its ongoing maintenance to mitigate the impact on future highway authority budgets.