31.05.16
Local authority roads should be part of strategic network – LGA board
The roads considered part of Britain’s strategic network should be almost doubled, according to a paper being discussed at Thursday’s meeting of the Local Government Association (LGA) environment, economy and housing board.
The paper, based on research from the Rees Jeffreys Road Fund, says that the 4,400 mile strategic road network (SRN), managed by Highways England, should be replaced by a major road network (MRN) that also includes 3,600 miles of local authority roads.
It also says that the MRN in every area should be designated by the new combined authorities and managed by the newly formed sub-national transport authorities, formed by a coming together of local authorities.
The LGA board will discuss issues of concern with the proposals and where there is a shared ambition with local authorities, and propose amendments.
Research from the Passenger Transport Executive Group last year found that local authority roads receive only a third of the funding for highways for every kilometre, despite councils warning that they face a £12bn backlog of road repairs.
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