In February, CIHT hosted a Chatham House roundtable discussion about street works with senior representatives of the statutory undertakers and highway authorities.  The purpose was to review whether the Institution could assist in providing an increased understanding of the network management processes and priorities involved amongst a broader audience and also consider outstanding issues.

The debate covered many subjects including what was working well, the key issues and challenges, what needs to change and the highest priorities for attention.  Topics included: 

The management and specification for reinstatements, inspections and the co-ordination of works were also reviewed and resource issues were highlighted including skills shortages and the need for further training and improved workforce accreditation.   Better communication to improve the public perception and understanding of street works was also discussed together with the importance of encouraging more innovation as a high priority.

Part of the contribution by CIHT is to develop articles together with news items for publication on the web-site and in Transportation Professional.  Initial topics will include an explanation of how the utility sector and highway authorities are organised and managed in England together with the differences in Scotland and Northern Ireland and a review of the co-ordination and co-operation currently in place highlighting outstanding challenges and difficulties.

A more comprehensive report on the February meeting can be found on the CIHT web-site. To view the full note from the meeting here.