Having data like this has meant we can now provide a robust evidenced based case for applying for funding in the future. It helps us plan and act more strategically "
The Challenge
Cheshire West and Chester Council has completed many condition surveys in the past but have had challenges interpreting the different types of surveys to provide consistency. Andy Bithell, Network Management Commissioner, Cheshire West and Chester Council said:
“Comparing SCANNER data with other surveys was very challenging and was giving us different conclusions, meaning we were never completely sure of the real condition of the complete network; we soon realised that we needed a higher level of detail and accuracy.”
Added to this, the Council also allocated resource on a detailed DVI survey.
“But we were still struggling to draw comparisons across the varying survey types,” Mr Bithell added. “What we were looking for mainly was a consistent approach to our surveys so we could then start to build an accurate picture of what we needed to prioritise and target over the next few years.”
The Solution
“We realised quite quickly that we needed to find a way of looking at the whole network, particularly footways and cycleways as a key component of the network, in a more holistic and detailed way before we could really apply our asset management principles,” said Mr Bithell.
Mr Bithell continued: “We spent some considerable time reviewing the approach taken by other authorities. Following the end of our own technical surveys framework we were looking for an innovative solution to our problem, we are also very aware that we didn’t want to reinvent something that already been done. After reviewing all of the options and working with Blackpool and the LCRIG group the RAMS Framework seemed the most innovative and cost-effective way of procuring what we needed.”
The Council started working with Gaist and liked the idea of a condition survey that was repeatable but featured a high level of detail.
“We began to realise that this level of detail combined with other data sets could help create more information on an individual street which could then inform investment decisions and support our holistic approach,” added Mr Bithell.
Now, the Council is able to have a three to five year program of works that includes every single road and footway identified by the different type of work and setting our clear priorities.
“Having data like this has meant we can now provide a robust evidenced based case for applying for funding in the future. It helps
us plan and act more strategically.”
Mr Bithell is now so confident in the data he has received; he has sent all of the condition data to the DfT to form part of its overall assessment of the UK network.
“Having data like this has meant we can now provide a robust evidenced based case for applying for funding in the future. It helps us plan and act more strategically. "
