CIHT welcome the decision by Prime Minister David Cameron to launch a targeted review of the resilience of the transport network to extreme weather events, announced at yesterday’s first meeting of the new Cabinet Committee on flooding.

Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin will lead the targeted review which will look at the plans for all transport providers and will build on the work of the Quarmby Review in response to cold weather. The review will report by the summer.

The recent extreme weather events have highlighted how everyone relies on or uses the UK’s transport network daily and it is fundamental to the economic, social and environmental wellbeing of the community.

Sue Percy, CIHT Chief Executive said:

“The whole of our infrastructure network is important to different users in different ways and must be effectively maintained to an appropriate standard, providing a safe and efficient level of service.

“Current long term predictions indicate that these extreme weather variations will continue and situations such as the current flood events, and disruption caused, underline how adequate maintenance and funding of the network must be a fundamental part of UK transport policy.

“CIHT are encouraged by this announcement and we would welcome the opportunity to be involved in this review.”

ENDS

Notes for editors

Press release - Prime Minister David Cameron has chaired the first meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Flooding:

Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation:

CIHT is a membership organisation representing over 12,000 people who work in the highways and transportation sector.

CIHT members plan, design, build, operate and maintain best-in-class transport systems and infrastructure, whilst respecting the imperatives of improving safety, ensuring economic competitiveness and minimising environmental impact.

CIHT supports its member’s professional endeavours by:
• offering training, information, professional development and support
• promoting the value added to society by the profession
• being the focused voice to Governments and other decision makers on transportation expertise and knowledge.

For more information please contact:
Daniel Isichei
Director of Communications

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