WIREDGOV

New National guidance framework to bring about closer working between Highways Agency and Local Authorities

HIGHWAYS AGENCY News Release (38-07) issued by The Government News Network on 16 July 2007

The Highways Agency is looking to build closer working relationships with local authorities by distributing a new version of the National Guidance Framework at the Traffic Operations Co-ordination Committee meeting on 17 July.

The framework will lead to more detailed local agreements with individual authorities. It covers the operational areas where the Highways Agency and the local authority will work together to better manage traffic and ease congestion to provide more reliable journey times. These areas for collaboration could include pre-planned events, diversion routes and the sharing of variable message signs (VMS) and CCTV systems.

The agreement gives local authorities guidance about how they can best share information with the Highways Agency. The National Traffic Control Centre is the main point of contact for local traffic managers concerning planned events and utilities works. The seven Regional Control Centres are the interface between the Agency and local authorities regarding the management of unplanned incidents on the road network.

The 2007 National Guidance Framework builds on previous agreements published in 2001, 2003 and 2005. It will continue to be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure continued success in the partnership between the Highways Agency and local authorities.

For more information, or to obtain a copy of the National Guidance Framework please call the Highways Agency Information Line on 08457 50 40 30 or email ha_info@highways.gsi.gov.uk

Notes to editors

1. The Highways Agency is an executive agency of the Department for Transport. We manage, maintain and improve England's motorways and major A roads on behalf of the Secretary of State.

2. Real-time traffic information for England's motorways and major 'A' roads is available on our website at http://www.highways.gov.uk/trafficinfo and by phone on 08700 660 115. (Calls from BT landlines to 0870 numbers will cost no more than 8p per minute; mobile calls usually cost more).

3. Before using a mobile, find a safe place to park. Never stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway except in an emergency. Make sure it's safe and legal before you call.

4. For more general information about the Highways Agency and its work, visit the Highways Agency website http://www.highways.gov.uk, or telephone the Highways Agency Information Line on 08457 50 40 30 at any time. (Calls to 0845 numbers cost no more than 3p/min from BT residential landlines. Call charges from other landlines and mobile networks may vary)

SAFE DRIVING AT ROADWORKS
During 2006 two workers were killed and 19 seriously injured in the course of their work on Highways Agency roads.

For the safety of all road users and roadworkers, when you are approaching roadworks:
* Keep within the speed limit - it is there for your safety.
* Get into the correct lane in good time - don't keep switching.
* Concentrate on the road ahead, not the roadworks.
* Be alert for works' traffic leaving or entering roadworks.
* Keep a safe distance - there could be queues in front.
* Observe all signs - they are there to help you.

Remember that tiredness can kill. Take regular breaks from driving.

Issued by the Highways Agency.