Highway Maintenance and Capital Works

RBWM (Client) has a statutory duty to manage and maintain the (public) highway network within the Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead. The highway network is a key community asset, supporting both the local and national economy, contributing to the character and environment of the Borough. A well-maintained network supports community mobility and accessibility essential to the wider aspirations of sustaining an inclusive society. The singular importance of management and maintenance of the highway network, for all categories of users, places an increasing demand on management systems to support service delivery.

The network contributes to delivery of the Client's strategic objectives and the shared priorities of national and local government. Efficient transport links are vital for a thriving population and economy, providing access to employment, education, healthcare, retail outlets and leisure and to all the other services and supplies we rely upon to support our needs. Maintenance of the network is vital to ensure it can continue to provide the principal element of the overall transport network.

The Client's Highway Management and Maintenance Plan (HMMP) provides guidance on the policies and procedures informing our highway maintenance practices, consistent with the Client's Vision and Values. It is based upon the three (3) Codes of Practice published by the roads Liaison Group with the support of the Department of Transport, which the Client adopts subject to our local variations described in the HMMP.

"Well-lit Highways - Code of Practice for Highway Lighting Management", published in November 2004.

"Well-maintained Highways - Code of Practice for Highway Maintenance Management", published in July 2005.

"Management of Highway Structures - A Code of Practice" published in September 2005.

The HMMP recognises that RBWMs highway maintenance cannot operate in isolation from the Client's other functions and responsibilities. The underpinning strategy demands a logical and systematic approach to achieve value for money and continuous improvement. It encompasses the Client's statutory duties, the wish to maintain and enhance the value of the network asset and the necessity to be responsive to the needs of the community.

The Client has a statutory duty, under the Highways Act 1980, to maintain the highway network within the Borough. Management and maintenance of the network is the responsibility of the Highways Asset Management Group within the Operations and Customer Service Directorate.

All the above must be maintained in a safe condition (with partners) in spite of the increasing pressures created by increasing traffic volumes, heavier and larger lorries and works carried out by public utilities.