Agenda item

An opportunity to ask any highways questions.

The Chairman then invited questions and comments from those present. It was noted that questions submitted in advance of the meeting would receive written responses in a document attached to the minutes.

The following questions were raised during the meeting with responses provided by the Panel:

1.    Potholes – general issue in the Pewsey area and in particular roads in Woodborough, Pewsey, Grafton and Easton Royal, reporting through the MyWilts App and request for information about timescales for repair. Investigate the use of new technologies to fix potholes including preventative action and assess and fix potholes en-route to planned maintenance.

Response – Officers explained that they were very alert to the challenges of potholes in rural areas. They commented on the impact of the weather on road surfaces resulting in potholes. It was noted that due to the increase in potholes generally across the country the demand for materials to repair potholes had increased to the point that it was difficult to source some of the materials necessary to make suitable repairs. On occasions interim repairs are undertaken for road safety purposes. Officers acknowledged that the MyWilts app required an update which was currently underway, with an improved system for reporting issues expected to be available in the New Year. Officers confirmed that the Council was keen to use new technology in dealing with highway issues. They also confirmed that operatives were encouraged to fill small potholes on the way to planned maintenance. 

2.    Signage for the railway bridge in Pewsey and impact on HGV’s following recent incidences.

Response – It was suggested that on occasions HGV drivers may either miss signs or simply ignore the signs. Cllr Oatway reported that the LHFIG had recently agreed funding for new railway bridge signage, and this had been put up on the approaches to the bridge.

3.    Parish Stewards Scheme – concern that in certain parish areas resourcing for Parish Stewards is lacking.

Response - Officers explained that the Highway Contract had recently been let to a new contractor and this had led to a number of challenges as with all new contracts. The Area Board noted that the new contract had afforded increases in available resources and investment in the Scheme. Officers explained that conversations about the work of Parish Stewards had taken place directly with the new contractor and improvements had been seen across the county. Officers agreed to investigate the issues further.

4.    Lack of Freight Strategy and impact on local communities.

Response – Officers reported that the Freight Strategy is part of the current Local Transport Plan review process. It was suggested that there would be new engagement early on in 2024.

5.    Obstructions in Wilcot near the Kennett and Avon Canal bridge and problems for boat owners parking cars.

Response – Officers would provide a response after the meeting.

6.    The quality of road repairs.

Response – Officers explained that the Council co-ordinate certain aspects of repairs undertaken especially by utility companies and the expectation is that roads are reinstated to an acceptable standard. The public were encouraged to report issues to the Council so that concerns are addressed. 

7.    Diversions and road closures – concern about signage and potential damage to verges when traffic is diverted along alternative routes due to accidents or planned road works, in particular HGV traffic using unsuitable routes. The public asked if officers approved diversion routes for planned works by utility companies.

Response – Sometimes the diversion of traffic is unavoidable especially along narrow rural roads. Officers indicated that they would investigate the concerns further, although ultimately it was the drivers responsibility to drive according to road conditions and speed limits.

8.    Verge cutting policy – concern about overgrown verges in Wootton Rivers along the three roads through the village causing access issues when vehicles wish to pass each other.

Response – The Area Board noted that the Grass Cutting Policy was being reviewed. Officers reported that the frequency of grass cutting has not changed, although when the grass is cut has changed to allow for natural flowering and biodiversity reasons. 

9.    Concerns about white lining issues, and maintenance issues across the county not being equal and Pewsey having the highest identifiable need.

Response – Officers confirmed that they were in dialogue with a number of residents about highway issues in the Pewsey area.