Surface conditions on England’s strategic network must be improved, according to a new report from influential watchdog the Office of Rail & Road.

 

It says that conditions have got better since the year 2015-16, when problems were attributed to a deterioration in skid resistance, but that Highways England remains below its target.

 

The report also urges the strategic road operator to focus more on capital planning, asset management and data reporting.

 

The watchdog goes on to say that Highways England’s current forecast of capital costs to renew and improve the network is higher than available funding and it must explain clearly how it will address the difference.

 

Office of Rail & Road highways director Peter Antolik said: “We expect Highways England to improve how it manages road condition and to improve its reporting process around critical data.

 

“Highways England is taking action to improve planning and delivery but it must now agree a robust, deliverable and affordable approach for its long terms investment plans,” he added.

 

Transport Focus chief executive Anthony Smith said drivers will be worried that the condition of Highways England’s roads is below the target set by Government. “They will expect to see a clear plan to get surface quality heading in the right direction.”

 

He added: “Road users will be concerned that planned improvements to England’s motorways and major A roads could cost more than the money Highways England has available.”

 

In response, Highways England’s chief executive Jim O’Sullivan said: “We have read the report and noted it makes clear we are committed to delivering safe, reliable roads that deliver value for money for the taxpayer. We are confident we will deliver this large programme without overspending our budget.”

 

(Photo: Highways England)