ADEPT response: Plans for utilities under pavements to cut potholes
Parvis Khansari, Chair of ADEPT Engineering Board said: “Chris Grayling’s announcement should be viewed as a long-term strategy if it is to be successful.
“We are unlikely to see the benefits in short-term due to the practical issues that will arise from relocating utilities underneath pavements. Initially the proposal will only be applicable to new utilities in new housing estates and will not affect services in existing roads for decades until they need to be replaced.
“Not all developments would have been designed with this in mind and many do not have continuous footpaths and even if they do there is simply not enough space to cater for water, sewer, electricity, gas and telecommunications utilities and the associated apparatus.
“The best way to control potholes is to implement appropriate asset management with complementing and sustainable funding strategies for local roads. This would ensure effective and timely routine and maintenance cycles, which would avoid most of the potholes in the first place.”
ENDS
About ADEPT The Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT) represents local authority county, unitary and metropolitan Directors. Operating at the strategic tier of local government, members are responsible for delivering public services that primarily relate to the physical environment and the economy, but which have a significant impact on all aspects of the nation’s well-being. ADEPT represents members' interests by proactively engaging central Government on emerging policy & issues, promoting initiatives aimed at influencing Government policy and through the development of best practices and responding to European and UK Government initiatives and consultations.
For more information on ADEPT please visit the website: www.adeptnet.org.uk