Part 1 – Protection for highways and traffic
342.Paragraph 1 provides that the arrangements set out in this Part of the Schedule are to apply unless the nominated undertaker and the highway authority concerned agree to vary them. The bodies for which this protection applies include all the highway authorities for highways in which the powers of the Act can be exercised (i.e. both the local highway authorities (local authorities and Transport for London) and, in respect of trunk roads, the Secretary of State). The arrangements set out here are in addition to the protection given to such authorities in Schedules 2 and 3 to the Act (for example, the right to approve temporary closures, the creation of new accesses, and the construction of new or altered streets).
343.These arrangements will apply instead of arrangements which normally govern street works under Part 3 of the New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 (except that by virtue of paragraph 14(2) the regulations which govern reinstatement of streets under that Act will apply to reinstatement of highways under the powers of this Act).
344.Paragraph 3 imposes a general obligation to minimise disruption to traffic. This will apply to the nominated undertaker in relation to powers to stop up streets and to construct works.
345.Paragraphs 4, 5 and 7 address works constructed under highways. Approval of plans by the highway authorities is required for works within 8 metres of the surface, and their consent is required for works which interfere with drainage or are within 2 metres of the surface. By virtue of paragraph 2 any consent or approval under these or any other provisions of this Part is not to be unreasonably withheld. In addition such works must be designed, constructed and maintained to carry the appropriate loading recommended for highway bridges.
346.Paragraph 6 applies to works involving bridges. Approval of plans is required if there is any interference with a highway and controls are imposed over the way that the works are constructed.
347.Paragraph 8 gives the highway authorities a right of access to inspect the construction of the works and paragraphs 9 to 16 contain miscellaneous provisions governing the way that works are constructed in highways, together with provision for reinstating streets after completion of the work, making good damage caused to highways and street furniture, and providing for reimbursement of costs incurred by highways authorities in connection with road diversions required for the works.
348.Paragraph 18 addresses disputes arising under this Part. Matters affecting the amount of compensation payable are referred to arbitration (which would then be governed by the provisions of section 54 of the Act). In any other case, unless the parties agree to arbitration, the dispute is determined by a person appointed by the Secretary of State who must have regard to any matters specified by the Secretary of State on making the appointment. The reason for this distinction is that it is considered that disputes as to compensation will not relate to matters of policy and there is no need for the Secretary of State to be involved in the resolution of such disputes.
