REPORT FROM THE CABINET MEMBER FOR ENVIRONMENT, TRANSPORT & PLANNING POLICY TO FULL COUNCIL MEETING

 19 APRIL 2006

 

 

 

ITEM 1            ATTENDANCE AT DEPARTMENT OR TRANSPORT (Dft) BRIEFING ON HIGHWAYS MAINTENANCE PRIVATE FINANCE INITIATIVE (PFI)

 

On 29th March 2006 Cllr Bulwer, myself and Mr Malcolm Smith from Highways attended a briefing session for local authorities thinking of bidding for Highways Maintenance or similar PFIs.  It was soon apparent to our group that the Isle of Wight’s PFI bid preparation was much more mature than other authorities whose representatives were present. 

 

It was interesting to note that the scope of PFI bids could be widened to include services such as parks and gardens, beach cleaning, street lighting, call centre operation and other front or rear office functions.

 

During discussion periods I was approached by several representatives of finance houses and contractors, all of whom implied that the Isle of Wight was generally considered to be one of the front runners in the bidding contest.   From my personal discussion with Dft officials it was clear that they were well aware of the Isle of Wight’s predicament and were keen to help.  All bids must be submitted in September 2006 and the announcement of those successful authorities will be announced in early 2007. 

 

ITEM 2            ISLAND RAILWAY

 

On 28th March 2006 I met with representatives of ARRIVA who are interested in the bidding for the Island’s rail franchise.  The representatives offered to solve the passing link problem and to upgrade the rolling tock to 1970’s vintage.

 

I explained that while they seemed to be offering us some modernization, I would prefer that they bring us in to the 21st Century rather than just advancing on the current early 20th Century rolling stock.   We then discussed Light Railway, Guided bus, Wight Bus and other associated issues.  The representative said that they had underestimated our aspiration so he would go back to ARRIVA and tell them that they needed to reassess their bid.

 

 

Cllr Ian Ward

Cabinet Member for Environment, Planning and Transport.