The Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme (HMEP) has issued a response to the 2014 National Highways and Transport (NHT) Survey results – which showed a small improvement in overall public satisfaction of highway services.
The survey collects public perspectives on, and satisfaction with, highways and transportation services in local authority areas.
Results of the survey were published at the recent NHT Conference. Speaking at the conference, Under Secretary of State for Transport Robert Goodwill said: “This year’s survey once again highlights road condition as people’s biggest concern, and I am pleased to see that we are moving in the right direction. Satisfaction levels are improving, albeit from a low point last year.
“This is in no small part due to the actions the government has taken – and is continuing to take, from additional funding, including the £168 million Pothole Fund awarded to authorities in June this year, to the excellent progress made by the Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme.”
Geoff Allister, executive director of the Highways Term Maintenance Association (HTMA) and HMEP board member, added: “While an increase in the public satisfaction levels of highway services is a welcome and positive step in the right direction, there is still work to be done to efficiently transform and improve the condition of our roads, so the gap between what is seen to be important and what still needs improving, can be firmly closed. Maintenance providers and clients, working in partnership, will continue to deliver optimum value for money solutions.
“The Highways Maintenance Efficiency Programme (HMEP) understands the challenges the sector is facing and can help to plan for greater long-term efficiencies while transforming roads and services to boost public and business confidence in the future. It’s important not to get left behind.”
Steve Kent, immediate past president of ADEPT and HMEP board member, commented: “In a time of limited funding, we need to make the most of every penny available to maintain and manage our road network which is vital if we are to help stimulate future economic growth.
“The best performing councils are testimony to what can be achieved and should be congratulated; HMEP invites all of them to share their practices with others so they too can seize the opportunity.
“By collaborating and working together, the sector can learn how to transform practices to further improve our roads and help generate increased customer satisfaction.”
You can view the results of the 2014 NHT Survey here.
