Purpose

The report seeks approval for the council to enter into and affix its seal to a Highways Agreement with Network Rail in connection with the proposed Network Rail (Stalybridge to Diggle (Saddleworth) Enhancements) Order under the Transport and Works Act 1992.

Decision

i)                   That Approval be given for the Council to enter into the Highways Agreement with Network Rail in relation to the Network Rail (Stalybridge to Diggle (Saddleworth) Enhancements) Order.

ii)                That approval be given to authorise the Strategic Director of Housing, Environment and Estates, with responsibility for Highways, in consultation with the Monitoring Officer, to agree any minor amendments to the Agreement that do not materially affect the Council's interests. 

Reasons for the decision

To protect the Council's interests as Highway Authority and enable delivery of the Stalybridge to Diggle rail enhancement scheme and associated highway works.

Alternative options considered

Failure to enter into the Agreement could result in reduced contractual protection for the Council in relation to the implementation of the rail enhancement scheme and may limit the Council's ability to secure agreed safeguards for the highway network.

Entering into the Agreement mitigates these risks by formally recording the obligations and commitments agreed between the parties.