Contact: Stuart Reynolds, ext 6048/Peter Brown, ext 6256

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the outcomes of the Best Value Review of Transport Network Improvement, which has been led by the Environment Policy Review Committee, are implemented as recommended in the attached standard document and detailed in the Improvement Plan.

1.2 That the following items which have budgetary implications are considered within the budget planning cycle:

(i) no specific implications identified.

2. Reason

2.1 The Best Value review is contained in the current five year review programme. Implementation of the recommended improvements will contribute to the successful fulfilment of that programme.

2.2 Future progress with the improvement plan will be monitored annually by the Environment Policy Review Committee and reported to the public and auditors through the Best Value Performance Plan. The Best Value Performance Plan forms part of the Council's policy framework and is also published annually.

2.3 The attached report summarises the deliberations and final considerations of the Steering Group and stakeholders who have contributed to the Best Value review of Transport Network Improvements. It was considered and approved by the Environment Policy Review Committee on 23 January 2002. The report concludes with an improvement plan which it is intended will be implemented over the next year, subject to the approval of the Executive Member for Environment. The Plan is proposed with four broad outcome areas, namely to provide:

(i) integrated joint working/working smarter;

(ii) fit for purpose solutions;

(iii) an accessible and responsive service; and

(iv) effective people development.

2.4 The review has found the service to be in good order and there are a number of accolades from the Government Office for the South East and other that indicate this to be the case. There are however areas where further improvements to the service can be made and through the BV process and the business planning process these areas will be reviewed with the intention of further improving the public image of the service and its delivery of quality and efficient services.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Full details of the options considered by the Environment Policy Review Committee are contained in the options/outcomes report at its meeting on 23 January 2002.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or a Member or Officer consulted - Not applicable.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor K B Estlin

7028/SJR/PNB