Issue - meetings

The Committee was advised that previously the Corporate Scrutiny Committee reviewed the performance report. That Committee had now indicated that it would be more appropriate now for the Policy and Scrutiny Committee to deal with this as the services fell within its remit.this Concern was expressed that Island Roads were being blamed for Wightfibre’s works. An explanation was given that an improvement notice had been issued to Wightfibre and Island Roads were trying to work in partnership with them and avoid carrying out works where it was known that Wightfibre works were due.

In response to other questions raised it was confirmed that, following completion of the St Mary’s junction works a review had taken place of the flow of traffic down to Coppins Bridge. Although traffic build-up in the outside lane was at times quite lengthy, it was known to clear fairly quickly.

It was also confirmed that there was a large backlog of Traffic Regulation orders (TROs) to be processed, although some schemes were now coming forward. There were only 1-2 Full Time Equivalent staff working on TROs, as well as other duties, and due to a delay in recruitment, these had been prioritised based on safety issues. It was believed that a small amount of investment by way of additional staff could bring rewards, even if for a fixed term. In 2017 Town and Parish Councils had been asked to provide the top 3-5 TROs required in their areas and it had been suggested that they may be processed if Town and Parish councils were to contribute towards their implementation.

A report on the TRO process to a future meeting of the Committee was requested.

It was suggested that any meeting with Wightfibre be a formal meeting, as requested by the Corporate Scrutiny Committee.

RESOLVED:

i)       An item to be included within the workplan relating to the co- ordination of highway works.

ii)      The Cabinet Member for Transport and infrastructure be recommended to consider approaching town and parish councils to assist in funding towards the costs of staff processing traffic regulation orders for their respective areas to assist in reducing the list of outstanding restrictions and public frustration.

iii)    The Director of Neighbourhoods circulate a report to the committee on the process involved in processing requests for traffic regulations.

The Corporate Scrutiny Committee had indicated that an item should be included within this committee’s workplan to look at works by utility companies, particularly Wightfibre and this would be progressed.