Decision details

As part of best practice, the Contracts Management Group for the East Sussex Highways contract is conducting a comprehensive review of East Sussex County Council’s strategic highways plans and policies to create a consistent, long-term approach to asset management. The Lead Member will consider proposed updates to key documents—including the Highway Asset Management Policy and Strategy - and consider introducing new policies on Commuted Sums and Winter Service. These updates align with Local Transport Plan 4 (LTP4) objectives, address identified policy gaps and reflect current best practice and government expectations linked to future funding.

14.1     The Lead Member considered a Report by the Director of Communities, Economy and Transport.

DECISIONS

14.2     The Lead Member RESOLVED to:

(1) Note the outcomes of the strategic review process;

(2) Approve the revised versions of the:

a)    Highways Asset Management Policy as set out at Appendix 3 of the report;

b)    Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Strategy as set out at Appendix 4 of the report;

c)     Highway Network Resilience Plan as set out at Appendix 8 of the report;

d)    Highways Drainage Asset Management Policy as set out in Appendix 5 of the report; and

e)    Drainage Asset Management Plan (DAMP) as set out at Appendix 6 of the report;

and

(3) Approve the implementation of new policies:

a)    Commuted Sums Policy and Guidance Note as set out at Appendices 9 and 10 of the report; and

b)    Winter Service Policy as set out at Appendix 11 of the report

with immediate effect, subject to final formatting and publication.

REASONS

14.3     This scheduled review forms part of the Council’s planned cycle of strategic document updates. It builds on the established and effective framework provided by the existing strategic highway policies and asset management plans, ensuring they remain fit for purpose and aligned with current legislation, national guidance and recognised best practice. The review is a proactive measure to maintain clarity, consistency, and transparency in the Council’s approach.

14.4     Approval of the revised documents and new targeted policies:

·       Maintains the Council’s Department for Transport Incentive Fund Band 3 status, securing the highest level of funding available.

·       Provides clear, documented frameworks for decision-making, complementing the robust approaches already in place.

·       Strengthens planning for severe weather, enhance drainage management, and ensure investment priorities are based on risk and whole-life value.

·       Formalises a consistent, transparent approach to developer contributions through the Commuted Sums Policy; and

·       Establishes a clear basis for responding to future winter service network requests without altering existing agreed routes, ensuring continuity while improving clarity.

14.5     These updates do not reduce service levels or change existing commitments, and no additional funding is required. They have been developed entirely within existing budgets and staffing resources and are designed to strengthen the Council’s asset management approach, improve operational practicality, and provide greater transparency for Members, staff and the public.

14.6     The revisions and new policies reflect developments in legislation, national guidance, and asset management practice, and have been informed by benchmarking with other high-performing authorities and the Council’s own advancements in asset management maturity.