Contact: Barry Armstrong, tel: 023 8042 7600

email: [email protected]

1. Summary

1.1 The following decision is sought:

That the project appraisal for the construction of accessibility and environmental improvements in Bridge Street, London Street and Winchester Street, Andover, at an estimated cost of £864,000 including £339,000 external funding, be approved.

2. Reason

2.1 On 11 September 2007 a project appraisal was approved at an estimated scheme cost of £515,000, based on the designs and cost estimates prepared by engineering partners, Mott Gifford. A further £70,000 was later approved from the Executive Member's Quality of Place fund.

2.2 The tenders received by Hampshire County Council have come in higher than anticipated. The full cost of the scheme, including fees and works costs, is an estimated £905,162. This unexpectedly high sum can be accounted for partly by the late additions to the scheme, including level changes in Bridge Street and the addition of special materials. However, it mainly reflects an under-estimation in scheme cost, in particular the non-standard features; additional consultants fees and the perceived difficulties of restricted working in a busy town centre.

2.3 The tender results were discussed at a briefing with the Executive Member for Environment on 17 March 2008, at which time additional funding and various cost savings were identified which includes the deletion of expensive CCTV duct on a concrete carriageway, change of manhole covers replacing non-standard with standard and revised kerbing detail. A new estimate identified that these savings, together with a revised funding package, would reduce the funding shortfall to £41,162. It was therefore resolved that the scheme be reviewed to reduce costs along the lines proposed and that a further project appraisal be presented for approval.

2.4 To summarise, the finance for the scheme would total £864,000 comprising £150,00 Local Transport Plan, £339,000 developer contributions, £115,000 highways special maintenance contribution, £70,000 Quality of Place contribution and £190,000 Test Valley Borough Council contribution.

2.5 This scheme will provide a safer and more secure environment for all, and contribute to improved local economic prosperity of local shops, markets and businesses and an enhanced sense of place.

3. Other Options Considered and Rejected

3.1 Alternative designs have been considered. To do nothing or tarmac these areas would be unacceptable and detract from the objective of providing a more accessible, attractive and safer environment.

4. Conflicts of Interest Declared by the Decision Maker or Other Executive Member Consulted - None.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee - None.

6. Reason(s) for the Matter being dealt with if Urgent - None.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor M J Kendal

Executive Member for Environment

1637Decn/BA