PAPER B

Purpose : For Decision

EXECUTIVE - 21 AUGUST 2001

BEST VALUE REVIEW

PORTFOLIO HOLDER - TRANSPORT

To consider the Highways and Transportation Best Value Review

RECOMMENDATION

It is recommended that the report is accepted and forwarded to the Best Value Inspector.

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

As set out in the Best Value Report

BACKGROUND

The general structure of the review followed the Authority guidelines. An initial brainstorming session was held to help structure the review and it was agreed that the main aim of the service is to provide a safe and sustainable transport network.

Rather than following the existing departmental structure, it was decided to review functions under four main headings, in order to benefit input across all sections.

They were:

- Maintenance of the network - aimed at safety and protection

- Accident Reduction - aimed at safety and protection

- Development and Improvement of the infrastructure

- Management of the network.

All four headings included roads, car parks and public rights of way.

Within each heading a cross-department team was established, with union representation and staff at different levels. The teams met at regular intervals to discuss and challenge a wide range of issues in each area. Some of the teams used a member of staff from a different department to add weight to the challenge.

Consultation and comparison exercises were carried out, details of which are set out in the report. Using the experience gained from other IWC Best Value reviews, and other reviews nationally, the groups then concentrated on certain key issues.

A joint meeting of the Appraisal Group/ Select Committee was held on 2 August 2001 to consider the report and outcomes. The report was accepted subject to a number of minor amendments that have subsequently been incorporated.

Key stakeholders were provided with a copy of the report and invited to comment and these have been appended.

BACKGROUND PAPERS

The Best Value Report

Contact Point: Nick Gallin, Senior Highway Maintenance Engineer, 823757