In accordance with minute 262 (9 December 2010), the Director of Technical Services informed the Cabinet of the expected adverse financial position, as a result of the impact of the recent prolonged spell of severe winter weather on the highway winter maintenance services provided by the Council; comprising gritting operations, salt procurement and ice and snow clearance. He reported also that repairs to the damage to the road surface (potholes) caused by the effects of the severe weather could be accommodated within approved budgets and he assured Members that highway winter maintenance services continued to be provided in accordance with the Council’s established priorities, regardless of the resultant adverse financial position. Members noted also that the Council had a statutory duty to keep highways clear of ice and snow.

The Director reported also that Wirral had made an application for an allocation of additional funding that had been made available by the Government, which he proposed would be used to support the structural maintenance programme.

Resolved –

(1)  That the increased cost of winter maintenance in 2010/2011 of £358,000 be met from balances.

(2)  That the Cabinet notes that despite extensive pothole repairs to the highway network caused by the effects of the severe weather, such repairs as instructed to be carried out will be able to be met from the approved budget.

(3)  That the proposed use of additional grant funding to support the structural maintenance programme be supported.