The Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee of Lincolnshire Council is scheduled to meet on Monday, 2 November 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on the strategic role of rail in Lincolnshire, the proposed replacement of Langrick Bridge, the implementation of a highways lane rental scheme, and ongoing innovation within Lincolnshire Highways.

Rail's Strategic Role in Lincolnshire

The committee is set to receive a report from Jayne Wingad, Rail Policy Officer, concerning rail's strategic importance to Lincolnshire. The report will cover how rail connectivity supports the county's economy, communities, and future growth. Updates are expected from Network Rail on infrastructure requirements and from East Midlands Railway regarding local services and changes. Key areas for discussion include securing line speed improvements between Lincoln and Nottingham, reviewing the successful introduction of increased services on this route, and improving station accessibility. The report also highlights challenges such as limited network coverage and service frequency, alongside opportunities presented by national rail reform.

DfT Structures Fund Submission – Replacement of Langrick Bridge

A report from Ian Booth, Principal Engineer (Structures), and Adam Round, Head of Design Services, will be presented for consideration regarding the Department for Transport (DfT) Structures Fund submission for the replacement of Langrick Bridge. This bridge, built in 1903, carries the B1192 over the River Witham and has been operating under single-lane traffic signal control since the 1990s due to structural assessment findings. The proposed replacement involves a new three-span bridge constructed offline to the west of the existing structure, aiming to provide two-way traffic and reduce future maintenance liabilities. The estimated scheme cost is £26.23 million, with a proposed Council contribution of £1.5 million from the Highways Maintenance Capital Budget. The committee's comments will be reported to the Executive for its consideration.

Lincolnshire Highways Lane Rental Scheme

Ashley Behan, Traffic Manager, will present a report on the proposed Lincolnshire Highways Lane Rental Scheme. This scheme aims to introduce charges for works promoters occupying sensitive parts of the highway network during peak demand periods. The primary objective is to influence behaviour and reduce disruption, rather than generate income. The scheme would complement the existing Lincolnshire Permit Scheme (LiPS) and could apply charges of up to £2,500 per day. Initial modelling suggests an annual net revenue of approximately £2.07 million after operational costs, though this is subject to a full cost-benefit analysis and formal consultation. The committee's views will be reported to the Executive Councillor for Highways and Transport.

Innovation, Continuous Improvement and Future Development within Lincolnshire Highways

Jonathan Evans, Head of Highways Client, will present a report on innovation, continuous improvement, and future development within Lincolnshire Highways. The report will outline established best practices, current initiatives, and emerging technologies and approaches being explored to manage and improve the county's extensive highway network. This includes advancements in asset management, risk-based drainage maintenance, coal tar recycling, operational control hubs, and fostering a culture of innovation. Current implementations such as the JCB Pothole Pro, PermaFyx resin repairs, digital network management, and FUSION intelligent traffic signals will be discussed, alongside future developments in artificial intelligence, transport modelling, street works inspections, intelligent scheduling, and councillor insight tools.

Lincolnshire Highways Partnership Social Value Update

Tom Gifford, Client and Contract Manager, and Ellie Baker, Highways Service Development Lead, will provide an update on the social value delivered by the Lincolnshire Highways Partnership during 2025/26. The report highlights approximately £54.7 million in social value generated through local economic activity, community volunteering, and skills development. The partnership has supported apprenticeships, graduate placements, and work experience opportunities. The report details the success of Councillor Volunteering Schemes, which have assisted numerous community projects across the county. Following industry award recognition, plans are in place to expand community involvement and align future activities with the Council's emerging Social Value and People Strategies. The committee is invited to review these achievements and suggest any further actions.

Highways and Transport Scrutiny Committee Work Programme

Hannah Hunter, Scrutiny Officer, will present the committee's work programme for the coming year. This agenda item allows the committee to review and comment on the planned scrutiny activities, ensuring they remain focused and add value. The report outlines scheduled topics for future meetings, including the rail update, Langrick Bridge replacement, lane rental scheme, highways innovation, social value update, and other performance reports and policy reviews. Members are encouraged to highlight any additional areas for scrutiny that could be included in the work programme.