Decision details

Approval to take the A229 Loose Road Corridor Junction improvement scheme through the next stages of development and delivery including authority to progress statutory orders and to enter into funding and construction contracts.

Reason for Decision:

The scheme is identified in the Maidstone Integrated Transport Package (MITP) to reduce congestion and ease traffic movements through the town.

Background:

The scheme involves the removal of an existing building, which has been purchased by KCC property team and the construction a signalised junction on the A229/A274.  In conjunction with this improvement, and to ensure connectivity between the junctions on the corridor, an new set of traffic signals will be installed at the junction with Plains Avenue, reconfiguration of the junction at Armstrong Road/Park Way and alteration of the lining leading into Sheals Crescent. 

Options: Various options have been considered but discarded as the proposal being taken provides the maximum benefits and least impact on the surrounding area. Alternative options required the acquisition of multiple adjacent private frontages, which would have required all residents to agree the purchase.  The cost of purchase and agreements would have been protracted and made the scheme unviable.

How the proposed decision meets the objectives of ‘Increasing Opportunities, Improving Outcomes: Kent County Council’s Strategic Statement (2015-2020)’ The scheme supports policy objectives of supporting existing businesses and encouraging economic activity with housing growth and job creation by reducing congestion and improving infrastructure and accessibility.  These also meet the objectives set out in the existing Local Plan.

As Cabinet Member for Highways & Transport I give:

i)               Approval to undertake the design and surveys for the schemes, including development control and land charge disclosures,

ii)              Approval to progress all statutory approvals or consents required for the schemes,

iii)            Approval to enter into land agreements with third parties as necessary,

iv)            Approval to enter into construction contracts as necessary for the delivery of the scheme subject to the approval of the recommended procurement strategy, and

v)             Approval to undertake engagement with all relevant stakeholders as identified in the communication plan.

vi)            Approval for any further decisions required to allow the schemes to proceed through to delivery to be taken by the Corporate Director of Growth, Environment & Transport under the Officer Scheme of Delegations following prior consultation with the Cabinet Member.