The Department for Transport (DfT) has launched its new Structures Fund to support councils across England in fixing and maintaining key issues such as ‘crumbling bridges, falling flyovers and deteriorating tunnels'.
Last September, the department announced plans for a £1bn fund, with £590m earmarked for the construction of the Lower Thames Crossing. Local authorities will be able to bid for a share of the remaining £410m to help them combat local structures issues.
This week, the DfT announced the official launch of the local Structures Fund, following consultation with ADEPT, and said it is encouraging councils to submit draft applications by 19 June for early feedback, which is intended to help them strengthen their proposals prior to the final submission deadline of 3 August.
Intended for use on ‘the most pressing cases', councils can submit proposals for support on projects ‘they cannot afford to fix alone'. Guidance for the application process is being provided by WSP, with councils also able to access a series of webinars taking place through April and May to gain extra help.
Councils can find information on how to apply and submission forms here.
Transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said: ‘Crumbling bridges and worn-out flyovers have been patched up rather than properly fixed for far too long, leading to frustrating weight limits and lengthy diversions.
‘Councils have known what needs fixing for years but simply haven't had the resources to act. We're changing that, making sure structures are repaired properly, so people can live in properly connected communities.'
Funding decisions are expected to be announced in the Autumn, with all successful schemes required to complete works by March 2030.
WSP managing director, Steve Denston, added: ‘Like much of the UK's essential infrastructure, local highways structures are ageing, performing at levels beyond the original design expectations, and suffering from more extreme weather.
‘The DfT Structures Fund is an invaluable initiative that will provide a step change in funding for critical infrastructure, releasing economic growth and safeguarding community assets.'
