The Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee of Shropshire Council met to discuss updates to the council's Highways Maintenance Strategy and Highways Inspection Policy, and to review the work programme for the upcoming year. The committee also received a briefing on the Riverside Gardens development.

Review of Highways Maintenance Strategy and Highways Inspection Policy

A significant portion of the meeting was scheduled to be dedicated to a review of Shropshire Council's Highway Inspection Manual and Highway Asset Management Policy and Strategy. These documents, originally approved in 2019, were due for an update to align with the current administration's priorities and to ensure compliance with the Department for Transport's Incentive Fund criteria for maximising capital funding.

The proposed Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Policy outlines a commitment to an asset management approach for the maintenance and improvement of the county's highway network. It aims to improve road safety, ensure the long-term quality and resilience of the transport system, promote walking, wheeling, and cycling, and protect the environment. The policy details objectives such as fulfilling statutory duties, maintaining infrastructure fit for purpose, considering all users, prioritising preventative maintenance, and making evidence-based decisions.

The accompanying Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Strategy sets out the strategic direction for managing highway infrastructure assets. It defines an asset management framework, identifies key asset groups such as carriageways, footways, cycleways, structures, street lighting, traffic signals, and drainage. The strategy highlights stakeholder priorities, with residents indicating a strong desire for improved highway condition and safer roads. It also aligns with the Shropshire Corporate Plan (2026-2030) and the emerging Local Transport Plan 4, focusing on road safety, resilient transport systems, and the promotion of active travel. National transport objectives, including decarbonisation and active travel, are also considered. The strategy details legal duties, best practices, and future demands, including the impact of climate change and evolving traffic patterns.

The Highway Safety Inspection Manual, updated in July 2026, provides detailed procedures for identifying and responding to highway defects. It outlines network hierarchies, inspection frequencies, and defect response times based on risk assessment. The manual includes specific instructions for various types of defects, such as potholes, edge deterioration, flooding, and issues with street lighting and traffic signals. A Car Park Addendum to the manual details the procedure for serviceability inspections of council-owned or managed parking and transport assets, applying a similar risk-based approach.

Riverside Gardens Development

The committee was scheduled to receive a briefing on the Riverside Gardens project, following a recent site visit. This item aimed to provide members with an update on the development.

Economy and Environment Overview and Scrutiny Committee Work Programme

The committee was set to discuss its Work Programme for 2026-27, considering potential topics for inclusion. The provided work programme document indicates a range of ongoing and planned activities, including reviews of the Highways Contract, waste management contracts, and the Station Gyratory scheme. It also lists planned member briefings on topics such as the adoption of estates and the Riverside development.