Decision Maker: Lead Member for Transport and Environment

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: June 16, 2025

Purpose: In May 2023, the Secretary of State for Transport made the Transport and Works Act Order to enable the completion of the Rother Valley Railway (Bodiam to Robertsbridge Junction). Some of the works to reinstate the railway will need to take place on adopted public highway that the County Council manages and maintains.  Ordinarily, these works would be permitted under Section 278 of the Highway Act, which officers have delegated authority to negotiate and agree.  However, due to the unusual nature of this project, the works will need to be agreed through a Transport and Works Act Agreement, which no delegated authority exists for officers to agree to. The report to Lead Member will be to seek authority for a Transport and Works Act Agreement to be agreed and signed with Rother Valley Railway.

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