Purpose

In response to feedback received from some Councillors around extended project delivery timescales and limited resources, and in light of proposed changes to the Area Boards, Cabinet expressed a desire to review the functionality of Local Highways & Footway Improvement Groups (LHFIGs) and consider whether changes should be made to the future operation of the LHFIGs.

Decision

Following consultation with officers I give notice that I intend to make the decision set out in the attached report. If you would like to make any representations to me on this issue, please do so by 25 June 2026

Reasons for the decision

Continuing with the LHFIGs in their current format would continue to allow local involvement and the delivery of community schemes.  This has a proven track record and would as likely remain successful.  However, it would not address the concerns that have been raised.  The move to greater funding of Substantive schemes, with a continuation at the current level in funding direct to the groups, would address the concerns raised through the survey.  There is however a need to correctly spend the available funding and help secure future financial allocations from the DfT and CIL. This can be addressed by use of a tick box business case that ensures that requests align with LTP objectives.  Staffing resource levels are an area of concern and will need to be monitored.  However, the proposed process changes are intended to help address some of the concerns in this area.

Changes to process and procedure are required to ensure the LHFIGs align with the proposed Area Board changes and remain an efficient and effective way of delivering community led schemes.

Alternative options considered

Two options have been considered

Option 1 - That the LHFIGs and Substantive schemes continue in their current funding format with changes to process and procedure.

Groups £500K, Substantive schemes £250K

Introduction of Price list

Reintroduction of five live schemes and prioritised scheme pipeline

Process flow charts and Form of Delegation

Revised Terms of Reference and Guidance notes

Record of compliance with funding requirements

Substantive bid process would remain an annual event.

From 27/28 introduce a defined minimum local contribution.

Option 2 - That the LHFIGs and Substantive schemes continue with an increase to funding for substantive schemes, improvements to process and procedure.

Groups £500K, Substantive schemes increased budget circa £500K

Introduction of Price list

Reintroduction of five live schemes and prioritised scheme pipeline

Process flow charts and Form of Delegation

Revised Terms of Reference and Guidance notes

Record of compliance with funding requirements

Substantive bid process would become a biannual event.

From 27/28 introduce a defined minimum local contribution