Bucks residents and road users are being urged to think before they drink over the festive period, in a campaign being run by Thames Valley Police and supported by Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB).
Together, they will be carrying out random roadside drink, speed and seatbelt checks throughout the day and night across the Thames Valley.
Last year's campaign saw 108 arrests relating to drink-driving in Buckinghamshire, with around 9,000 breath tests carried out in total during this period across the Thames Valley.
In addition to roadside checks, TfB is encouraging residents to download a free app designed to help drivers avoid a 'morning after' drink-drive conviction.
Many people do not realise how long after a boozy Christmas party they may still be unfit to drive - even the morning after - and the app has been developed to give an idea of when you will be alcohol free.
The app, called the ‘Morning After Calculator’, presents a wide range of alcoholic drinks and the user enters the drinks he or she is consuming (or has consumed). The app calculates roughly when the alcohol will have passed through their body, allowing one hour for each unit of alcohol, plus an additional hour for the alcohol to enter the bloodstream, and then rounds up the calculation to the nearest half hour.
The app bases its calculation from the time the user stops drinking, not when they start drinking. While accepting this is perhaps over-cautious, the Morning After team says it would “rather be safe than sorry”.
The 'hours before driving' calculation is not based on any drink drive limit - it is the length of time when the alcohol in the drinks the person has consumed is likely to have passed through their body completely.
Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said, “At this time of year many of us will be attending events with family and friends. Christmas should be a time for relaxing and enjoying ourselves with many happy memories, and I would encourage you not to drink and drive. It would be heartbreaking to make this a Christmas to remember for all the wrong reasons, so if you are drinking any amount of alcohol, even one drink - please leave the car at home and make alternative arrangements.”
Posters and flyers to support the campaign can be downloaded from:
http://morning-after.org.uk/.
The app can be downloaded from:
Google Play store
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.stennik.morningafter
iTunes store
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/morning-after-calculator/id980548985?mt=8
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Friday, 11 December 2015
Tuesday, 8 December 2015
Vision for county’s transport future
A vision for the future of transport in Buckinghamshire goes live today (Monday December 7). And residents and businesses are being asked to say what they think about it.
It’s published by the County Council, and comes in the form of a new draft Buckinghamshire Local Transport Plan – a blueprint for travel covering all types of transport, looking ahead to 2036.
An extended public consultation starts today, through the County Council’s online ‘Have Your Say’ web page, and runs until January 29
Launching the consultation, Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport, said good transport systems were essential to grow Buckinghamshire’s economy, serve its residents and businesses well, and make the county a great place to live and work.
‘Planning for the future of transport in the county is critically important, and we don’t get a second chance at it,’ said Mark. ‘I want to make sure we really understand the people of Buckinghamshire. With their feedback I believe we’ll be able make this a practical working plan for change, that will benefit everyone in the county.’
He said that as well as supporting good roads, public transport, cycleways and footpaths, the draft Local Transport Plan aimed to:
• Encourage links to local, national and international destinations that promote a flourishing economy.
• Empower communities to support their own local transport solutions.
• Enable and promote travel choices that improve people’s health.
‘The draft Plan is very clear about maintaining and enhancing our county’s special environment, and helping residents and businesses thrive and develop to become one of the strongest and most productive economies in the country,’ said Mark.
The draft Plan also supports a number of vital transport improvements; for example East-West Rail, which Mark said would stimulate an estimated £72 million boost to the local economy. It would open up a public transport cul-de-sac for the county and bring connections to the north, west and east of the country within convenient reach of the whole of the county.
Achieving the Plan's aims will require strong partnerships with central government, the district councils, communities and businesses, said Mark, along with innovative approaches to make the best use of taxpayers’ money in a climate of austerity.
A link to the ‘Have Your Say’ survey can be found at https://democracy.buckscc.gov.uk/mgConsultationDisplay.aspx?ID=1117 and those with no internet connection can see it at Buckinghamshire libraries.
It’s published by the County Council, and comes in the form of a new draft Buckinghamshire Local Transport Plan – a blueprint for travel covering all types of transport, looking ahead to 2036.
An extended public consultation starts today, through the County Council’s online ‘Have Your Say’ web page, and runs until January 29
Launching the consultation, Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport, said good transport systems were essential to grow Buckinghamshire’s economy, serve its residents and businesses well, and make the county a great place to live and work.
‘Planning for the future of transport in the county is critically important, and we don’t get a second chance at it,’ said Mark. ‘I want to make sure we really understand the people of Buckinghamshire. With their feedback I believe we’ll be able make this a practical working plan for change, that will benefit everyone in the county.’
He said that as well as supporting good roads, public transport, cycleways and footpaths, the draft Local Transport Plan aimed to:
• Encourage links to local, national and international destinations that promote a flourishing economy.
• Empower communities to support their own local transport solutions.
• Enable and promote travel choices that improve people’s health.
‘The draft Plan is very clear about maintaining and enhancing our county’s special environment, and helping residents and businesses thrive and develop to become one of the strongest and most productive economies in the country,’ said Mark.
The draft Plan also supports a number of vital transport improvements; for example East-West Rail, which Mark said would stimulate an estimated £72 million boost to the local economy. It would open up a public transport cul-de-sac for the county and bring connections to the north, west and east of the country within convenient reach of the whole of the county.
Achieving the Plan's aims will require strong partnerships with central government, the district councils, communities and businesses, said Mark, along with innovative approaches to make the best use of taxpayers’ money in a climate of austerity.
A link to the ‘Have Your Say’ survey can be found at https://democracy.buckscc.gov.uk/mgConsultationDisplay.aspx?ID=1117 and those with no internet connection can see it at Buckinghamshire libraries.
Friday, 27 November 2015
Major transport review to start across the County
Every penny the County Council spends on transporting people to work, school and to other key services and amenities in Buckinghamshire and beyond is going under the microscope.
Council bosses currently invest £24m providing and supporting a range of transport services. These include home to school transport, services for adult social care, concessionary fares and non-commercial bus services that often run in the evenings, weekends or in rural areas.
Whilst significant savings have been made in recent years, further savings of £2.3m need to be found to meet the Council's agreed budget strategy going forward.
Cabinet Member for Transportation, Mark Shaw said the all-encompassing review will look at both external services and the way in which services are managed and provided internally by the council.
"We will be looking at everything we do in this area, how we do it, how much it costs and whether we can do it differently.
"Unfortunately a do-nothing approach is not an option. What we have to do is deliver more efficient transport arrangements, that best meets the needs of communities whilst doing it for less cost.
"We don't know all the answers, so it's vital we work with communities so they can tell us what's needed locally and how we can design new approaches together. We are therefore planning to work through our local area forums to launch four suggested pilot areas - Buckingham, Waddesdon and Chesham and their surrounding rural areas and High Wycombe - so we can look in detail at what goes on locally and hopefully find solutions that can also be applied across the county."
The Council has also just launched its budget consultation which asks local residents, communities and businesses where they think the Council should best direct its limited resources. The survey is online at www.buckscc.gov.uk/budget until the closing date of Thursday, December 17.
Council bosses currently invest £24m providing and supporting a range of transport services. These include home to school transport, services for adult social care, concessionary fares and non-commercial bus services that often run in the evenings, weekends or in rural areas.
Whilst significant savings have been made in recent years, further savings of £2.3m need to be found to meet the Council's agreed budget strategy going forward.
Cabinet Member for Transportation, Mark Shaw said the all-encompassing review will look at both external services and the way in which services are managed and provided internally by the council.
"We will be looking at everything we do in this area, how we do it, how much it costs and whether we can do it differently.
"Unfortunately a do-nothing approach is not an option. What we have to do is deliver more efficient transport arrangements, that best meets the needs of communities whilst doing it for less cost.
"We don't know all the answers, so it's vital we work with communities so they can tell us what's needed locally and how we can design new approaches together. We are therefore planning to work through our local area forums to launch four suggested pilot areas - Buckingham, Waddesdon and Chesham and their surrounding rural areas and High Wycombe - so we can look in detail at what goes on locally and hopefully find solutions that can also be applied across the county."
The Council has also just launched its budget consultation which asks local residents, communities and businesses where they think the Council should best direct its limited resources. The survey is online at www.buckscc.gov.uk/budget until the closing date of Thursday, December 17.
Tuesday, 24 November 2015
On-demand bus route is just the ticket for residents near the Northants/Bucks border
Councillors from neighbouring Buckinghamshire and Northamptonshire got a taste of cross-border buses on demand on Wednesday November 18. They took a trip on the new County-Connect service between Towcester and Stowe.
County-Connect is an on-demand rural transport service, which goes wherever residents want within a designated area.
Area 4 - connecting eight villages north of Buckingham and six in south Northamptonshire with Towcester and Brackley - is jointly funded by Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire County Council and operated by Kier. The service features:
• No fixed timetable: passengers book in advance and can travel whenever they want between 7am and 7pm on weekdays and 8am and 6pm on Saturdays.
• Great value: fares are based on traditional bus routes and Concessionary Bus Passes are valid.
• Brand new: high-specification vehicles, with full seat belts and tie-down tracking for wheelchair users, provide the service
Councillors Michael Clarke and Ian McCord, from Northamptonshire , joined Buckinghamshire County Council Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw, his deputy, Paul Irwin, and local Members Robin Stuchbury and Warren Whyte to try the new community service.
Mark Shaw said: 'This is an excellent solution to provide accessibility to rural areas with limited or no traditional bus routes. Having travelled on one of the buses I can certainly recommend it to those living in the villages served.'
Michael Clarke, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Environment and Infrastructure at Northamptonshire County Council said: ‘We are delighted to continue the cross border arrangements with Buckinghamshire, under the new 'Heart of England' Alliance, this means we can provide even better bus services and and great connection for users. Working together with partners with the same ambition means that we can explore how we can develop a more efficient and accessible service. It is fantastic to be able to work collaboratively to provide the County Connect service that goes where and when users need it within the designated areas’.
To register and book a journey call 0345 456 4474 (local call rate) or visit www.county-connect.co.uk
County Connect, Area 4 serves:
• Biddlesden, Lillingstone Lovell, Lillingstone Dayrell, Westbury, Shalstone, Dadford, Turweston and Stowe in Buckinghamshire.
• Brackley, Towcester, Radstone, Evenley, Helmdon, Syresham, Whittlebury and Silverstone in Northamptonshire
County-Connect is an on-demand rural transport service, which goes wherever residents want within a designated area.
Area 4 - connecting eight villages north of Buckingham and six in south Northamptonshire with Towcester and Brackley - is jointly funded by Northamptonshire and Buckinghamshire County Council and operated by Kier. The service features:
• No fixed timetable: passengers book in advance and can travel whenever they want between 7am and 7pm on weekdays and 8am and 6pm on Saturdays.
• Great value: fares are based on traditional bus routes and Concessionary Bus Passes are valid.
• Brand new: high-specification vehicles, with full seat belts and tie-down tracking for wheelchair users, provide the service
Councillors Michael Clarke and Ian McCord, from Northamptonshire , joined Buckinghamshire County Council Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw, his deputy, Paul Irwin, and local Members Robin Stuchbury and Warren Whyte to try the new community service.
Mark Shaw said: 'This is an excellent solution to provide accessibility to rural areas with limited or no traditional bus routes. Having travelled on one of the buses I can certainly recommend it to those living in the villages served.'
Michael Clarke, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Environment and Infrastructure at Northamptonshire County Council said: ‘We are delighted to continue the cross border arrangements with Buckinghamshire, under the new 'Heart of England' Alliance, this means we can provide even better bus services and and great connection for users. Working together with partners with the same ambition means that we can explore how we can develop a more efficient and accessible service. It is fantastic to be able to work collaboratively to provide the County Connect service that goes where and when users need it within the designated areas’.
To register and book a journey call 0345 456 4474 (local call rate) or visit www.county-connect.co.uk
County Connect, Area 4 serves:
• Biddlesden, Lillingstone Lovell, Lillingstone Dayrell, Westbury, Shalstone, Dadford, Turweston and Stowe in Buckinghamshire.
• Brackley, Towcester, Radstone, Evenley, Helmdon, Syresham, Whittlebury and Silverstone in Northamptonshire
New lane markings for roundabout
Alterations to lane markings at a Buckingham roundabout will start w/b November 23.
The work will be undertaken by the developers of the Lace Hill estate in response to an independent road safety audit and concerns raised by residents.
The alterations to the lane markings will create a dedicated left hand lane and two circulatory lanes at each entrance to the roundabout.
Buckinghamshire County Council has been reviewing the proposed revisions with the developers to ensure safety concerns could be satisfied without reducing the capacity and operation of the roundabout.
Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: 'As the highways authority we had to be assured that the proposed revisions would aid safety at this junction. I'm satisfied the revised lane markings will make the road safer and easier for motorists to use.'
Although the roundabout is due to be resurfaced, the revised lane markings will be installed as soon as possible to satisfy local concern. Re-surfacing by the developers is scheduled to be done during the winter, subject to weather, along with the outstanding remedial works.
The work will be undertaken by the developers of the Lace Hill estate in response to an independent road safety audit and concerns raised by residents.
The alterations to the lane markings will create a dedicated left hand lane and two circulatory lanes at each entrance to the roundabout.
Buckinghamshire County Council has been reviewing the proposed revisions with the developers to ensure safety concerns could be satisfied without reducing the capacity and operation of the roundabout.
Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport, said: 'As the highways authority we had to be assured that the proposed revisions would aid safety at this junction. I'm satisfied the revised lane markings will make the road safer and easier for motorists to use.'
Although the roundabout is due to be resurfaced, the revised lane markings will be installed as soon as possible to satisfy local concern. Re-surfacing by the developers is scheduled to be done during the winter, subject to weather, along with the outstanding remedial works.
Tuesday, 10 November 2015
Winter work gets underway on the roads
With summer memories fading fast, Transport for Buckinghamshire's (TfB's) area maintenance teams leave behind their lawnmowers to start winter tasks.
More than 33 million square metres of grass were cut during the summer season, and attention now turns to the maintenance required to prepare the verges for winter.
TfB's teams are cutting drainage 'grips' on the verges to help water drain from the road, tidying footways, clearing overhanging vegetation and cutting back hedges to ensure roads and footpaths are as safe as possible for the winter season.
Throughout the season, more than 9,050 potholes have also been repaired so the roads start the winter season in the best possible state, ready for the cold weather.
The gritting teams are also getting ready for their first trip out; road temperatures and weather reports are now being monitored in readiness for the first gritting run. TfB's 25 gritters have been checked and serviced and the drivers briefed.
This year around 10,500 tonnes of salt are safely stored in fully-stocked salt barns across the county, ready for use on the 1,427 kilometres (891 miles) of primary routes when required.
TfB makes the decision for gritting daily, based on forecasts of expected weather conditions and road surface temperatures. Should the road temperature fall below zero, crews will be called in to carry out their precautionary salting runs.
Gritters can be tracked, by name, online. You can see 'Mitten', 'Mr Sprinkle' and 'Lambourgritti' as well as the rest of the fleet on their duties across the county in real time.
Once a decision has been made about whether or not to treat the roads, TfB will update its website daily, and use Twitter - on @tfbalerts - to keep people informed.
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, said: 'After last year's relatively mild and wet winter, we're prepared for all conditions once again this season. The wealth of experience and knowledge within our winter teams fills me with confidence that we can deliver a top notch service to keep our roads as safe and secure as possible.
'We must remember, however, that salt is not a cure-all substance, and I'd encourage residents all to check that vehicles are ready for the cold weather, and remember to always drive to the conditions of the road.'
Winter driving workshops are taking place across the county during November and December to enable road users to brush up their skills when driving in difficult weather conditions.
Booking details: www.buckscc.gov.uk/transport and click on the 'Winter' button.
Tuesday 17 November 2015 – Central Tyre Buckingham, Wharf House Yard, Stratford Road, Buckingham MK18 1TD
Thursday 19 November 2015 – STS Tyre Pros, Amersham Road, Chesham HP5 1NG
Tuesday 24 November 2015 – Kwik Fit Tyre Pros, 511 London Road,High Wycombe HP11 1EP
Wednesday 2 December 2015 – STS Tyre Pros, Park Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1DX
All workshops are 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
IN THE PICTURES
Gritters at work across the county
More than 33 million square metres of grass were cut during the summer season, and attention now turns to the maintenance required to prepare the verges for winter.
TfB's teams are cutting drainage 'grips' on the verges to help water drain from the road, tidying footways, clearing overhanging vegetation and cutting back hedges to ensure roads and footpaths are as safe as possible for the winter season.
Throughout the season, more than 9,050 potholes have also been repaired so the roads start the winter season in the best possible state, ready for the cold weather.
The gritting teams are also getting ready for their first trip out; road temperatures and weather reports are now being monitored in readiness for the first gritting run. TfB's 25 gritters have been checked and serviced and the drivers briefed.
This year around 10,500 tonnes of salt are safely stored in fully-stocked salt barns across the county, ready for use on the 1,427 kilometres (891 miles) of primary routes when required.
TfB makes the decision for gritting daily, based on forecasts of expected weather conditions and road surface temperatures. Should the road temperature fall below zero, crews will be called in to carry out their precautionary salting runs.
Gritters can be tracked, by name, online. You can see 'Mitten', 'Mr Sprinkle' and 'Lambourgritti' as well as the rest of the fleet on their duties across the county in real time.
Once a decision has been made about whether or not to treat the roads, TfB will update its website daily, and use Twitter - on @tfbalerts - to keep people informed.
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Transport, said: 'After last year's relatively mild and wet winter, we're prepared for all conditions once again this season. The wealth of experience and knowledge within our winter teams fills me with confidence that we can deliver a top notch service to keep our roads as safe and secure as possible.
'We must remember, however, that salt is not a cure-all substance, and I'd encourage residents all to check that vehicles are ready for the cold weather, and remember to always drive to the conditions of the road.'
Winter driving workshops are taking place across the county during November and December to enable road users to brush up their skills when driving in difficult weather conditions.
Booking details: www.buckscc.gov.uk/transport and click on the 'Winter' button.
Tuesday 17 November 2015 – Central Tyre Buckingham, Wharf House Yard, Stratford Road, Buckingham MK18 1TD
Thursday 19 November 2015 – STS Tyre Pros, Amersham Road, Chesham HP5 1NG
Tuesday 24 November 2015 – Kwik Fit Tyre Pros, 511 London Road,High Wycombe HP11 1EP
Wednesday 2 December 2015 – STS Tyre Pros, Park Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1DX
All workshops are 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
IN THE PICTURES
Gritters at work across the county
New apprentices for Transport for Buckinghamshire
Transport for Buckinghamshire has recently welcomed five new apprentices to the organisation.
The recruitment process started in June this year when TfB advertised apprenticeship vacancies in
Business Administration,
Quantity Surveying,
Civil Engineering, and
Highways Maintenance
After an open morning and series of interviews during August, Daisy Fortune, Reece Wade, Tom Knight, Greg Farr and Declan Allen were selected to join the TfB family.
Daisy joins as the Business Administration apprentice
Reece has joined as a Quantity Surveying apprentice
Tom is TfB's Civil Engineering apprentice
Greg and Declan join the Highway Maintenance teams
College & Qualifications
They will all be working towards a variety of qualifications in their chosen field:
Daisy – Business Administration – Daisy will be working towards an NVQ3 in Business Administration in the next 15 months.
Reece – Quantity Surveyor – Over 2 years, Reece will be working towards a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment, whilst earning an NVQ in Construction, Contracting and Operations through working within the business.
Tom – Civil Engineering – Tom is TfB's Schemes apprentice and will be working towards a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment.
Greg & Declan – Highways Maintenance – Greg and Declan will be attending NCC Midlands College, Birmingham, earning a Level 2 Diploma in Highway Maintenance at college, and an NVQ Diploma to be assessed on site.
Simon Dando, TfB's Contract Director said, "I am delighted that we have been able to welcome these five new colleagues to Transport for Buckinghamshire and I really hope they will enjoy and embrace the challenges that await them. This is a great opportunity to explore a career within the construction industry, and I truly believe that TfB is the perfect place to take that first step."
Ringway Jacobs, who run Transport for Buckinghamshire, is a member of 'The 5% Club', having pledged that at least 5% of the workforce over the next five years is made up of young people on structured training. This includes apprenticeships and graduate schemes.
John Sunderland, Operations Director for Ringway Jacobs said, "As an organisation, we are committed to investing in the future of the business, and I am proud that 9% of our company is made up of apprentices and graduates. I am confident that our newest recruits will find the support and guidance they need to develop a successful career in a growing industry. I wish them the very best as they start this new journey. "
The recruitment process started in June this year when TfB advertised apprenticeship vacancies in
Business Administration,
Quantity Surveying,
Civil Engineering, and
Highways Maintenance
After an open morning and series of interviews during August, Daisy Fortune, Reece Wade, Tom Knight, Greg Farr and Declan Allen were selected to join the TfB family.
Daisy joins as the Business Administration apprentice
Reece has joined as a Quantity Surveying apprentice
Tom is TfB's Civil Engineering apprentice
Greg and Declan join the Highway Maintenance teams
College & Qualifications
They will all be working towards a variety of qualifications in their chosen field:
Daisy – Business Administration – Daisy will be working towards an NVQ3 in Business Administration in the next 15 months.
Reece – Quantity Surveyor – Over 2 years, Reece will be working towards a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment, whilst earning an NVQ in Construction, Contracting and Operations through working within the business.
Tom – Civil Engineering – Tom is TfB's Schemes apprentice and will be working towards a BTEC Level 3 Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment.
Greg & Declan – Highways Maintenance – Greg and Declan will be attending NCC Midlands College, Birmingham, earning a Level 2 Diploma in Highway Maintenance at college, and an NVQ Diploma to be assessed on site.
Simon Dando, TfB's Contract Director said, "I am delighted that we have been able to welcome these five new colleagues to Transport for Buckinghamshire and I really hope they will enjoy and embrace the challenges that await them. This is a great opportunity to explore a career within the construction industry, and I truly believe that TfB is the perfect place to take that first step."
Ringway Jacobs, who run Transport for Buckinghamshire, is a member of 'The 5% Club', having pledged that at least 5% of the workforce over the next five years is made up of young people on structured training. This includes apprenticeships and graduate schemes.
John Sunderland, Operations Director for Ringway Jacobs said, "As an organisation, we are committed to investing in the future of the business, and I am proud that 9% of our company is made up of apprentices and graduates. I am confident that our newest recruits will find the support and guidance they need to develop a successful career in a growing industry. I wish them the very best as they start this new journey. "
Bid to keep Buckinghamshire’s mature motorists driving safer for longer
Older motorists are being urged to keep their driving skills well honed in a campaign by Buckinghamshire County Council to reduce the number of collisions.
The campaign highlights the County Council's Mature Driver Scheme course, run under Transport for Buckinghamshire’s 'Be a Better Driver' banner.
And it's being supported strongly by Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw as a way to help keep the county’s mature motorists driving safely for longer.
In the five years from 2009 to 2013 the number of killed and seriously injured collisions involving drivers over 65 rose by almost 60% - from 27 in 2009 to 43 in 2013. In the main, causes were illness, fatigue, distraction and uncorrected defective eyesight.
With an increase in car ownership, a rise in the population aged 65-plus, and longer 'driving careers' among motorists, Mark is concerned there is an increased risk of being involved in a collision.
He said Buckinghamshire's population of over-65s was expected to rise from 84,900 (16.8%) to 115,300 (21.7%) by 2025. 'And I'm concerned that we don't mirror this rise in our collision statistics,' he said.
Since April 2012 more than 260 mature drivers have taken the course - the youngest at 61 and oldest at 94 - and more than a 25% have returned for reassessment: like 85-year-old resident Doreen, who has taken the course five times because she wants to ensure her driving skills are up to date.
Drivers take the course – a one hour assessment costing £37 - in their own car on routes familiar to them, and based on their driving needs. They get a detailed written report outlining recommendations to improve driving tactics.
The aim is to increase drivers awareness of the effects age can have on driving skills and to help them with strategies to reduce the risk of being involved in a collision.
Mark Shaw said there was never a wrong time to encourage older motorists to run a check on their driving skills, and think about regular assessment to help keep them driving safely for longer.
'There's no national statutory refresher course or test for older drivers, and I believe we should do all we can locally to keep our older drivers driving safely on our roads,' he said.
'Courses like our Mature Driver Scheme do an enormous amount to help keep driving skills sharpened and strengthen everyday driving confidence.'
Arthur Edwards, Chairman of Princes Risborough Community Association, agrees. Arthur (71), who has been driving for more than 50 years, was so impressed with the course and the detail it covered, he says he’ll take another in two or three years’ time.
And, he says, he feels a more confident, safer driver. 'I've benefited from a reminder to be more aware of what's going on around me, to use my nearside mirror more often, and I've learned tactics to avoid speed creep,' he said.
More information on the County Council's Mature Driver Assessments:
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Road-Safety/Older/Mature-drivers.aspx
The campaign highlights the County Council's Mature Driver Scheme course, run under Transport for Buckinghamshire’s 'Be a Better Driver' banner.
And it's being supported strongly by Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw as a way to help keep the county’s mature motorists driving safely for longer.
In the five years from 2009 to 2013 the number of killed and seriously injured collisions involving drivers over 65 rose by almost 60% - from 27 in 2009 to 43 in 2013. In the main, causes were illness, fatigue, distraction and uncorrected defective eyesight.
With an increase in car ownership, a rise in the population aged 65-plus, and longer 'driving careers' among motorists, Mark is concerned there is an increased risk of being involved in a collision.
He said Buckinghamshire's population of over-65s was expected to rise from 84,900 (16.8%) to 115,300 (21.7%) by 2025. 'And I'm concerned that we don't mirror this rise in our collision statistics,' he said.
Since April 2012 more than 260 mature drivers have taken the course - the youngest at 61 and oldest at 94 - and more than a 25% have returned for reassessment: like 85-year-old resident Doreen, who has taken the course five times because she wants to ensure her driving skills are up to date.
Drivers take the course – a one hour assessment costing £37 - in their own car on routes familiar to them, and based on their driving needs. They get a detailed written report outlining recommendations to improve driving tactics.
The aim is to increase drivers awareness of the effects age can have on driving skills and to help them with strategies to reduce the risk of being involved in a collision.
Mark Shaw said there was never a wrong time to encourage older motorists to run a check on their driving skills, and think about regular assessment to help keep them driving safely for longer.
'There's no national statutory refresher course or test for older drivers, and I believe we should do all we can locally to keep our older drivers driving safely on our roads,' he said.
'Courses like our Mature Driver Scheme do an enormous amount to help keep driving skills sharpened and strengthen everyday driving confidence.'
Arthur Edwards, Chairman of Princes Risborough Community Association, agrees. Arthur (71), who has been driving for more than 50 years, was so impressed with the course and the detail it covered, he says he’ll take another in two or three years’ time.
And, he says, he feels a more confident, safer driver. 'I've benefited from a reminder to be more aware of what's going on around me, to use my nearside mirror more often, and I've learned tactics to avoid speed creep,' he said.
More information on the County Council's Mature Driver Assessments:
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Road-Safety/Older/Mature-drivers.aspx
Wednesday, 9 September 2015
‘Morning After’ drink drive reminder to Rugby World Cup fans
Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) is advising rugby fans to be mindful of driving after drinking alcohol during the forthcoming Rugby World Cup 2015 (18 September – 31 October).
And to help fans, it is promoting a 'morning after' smartphone app designed to help people understand when their body could be alcohol-free.
As with all major sporting events, the tournament will be enjoyed and celebrated by millions, with alcohol potentially playing a part in those celebrations.
TfB is urging people to understand how long it takes for alcohol to pass through the body and not to risk getting a drink drive penalty ‘the morning after’.
The penalties for drink driving include a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, a fine, up to six months in prison and a licence endorsement for 11 years
TfB is promoting the new ‘Morning After Calculator’ app, designed to help people understand when their body could be alcohol-free. It is available free of charge from Google play and the Apple App Store.
The ‘Morning After Calculator’, is intended only as a guide and not intended for people to work out how much they can drink on a night out before driving home. It has been produced to help people calculate roughly when it will be safe to drive the morning after drinking alcohol. The calculator allows one hour for each unit of alcohol, plus an additional hour for the first drink to allow for the alcohol to enter the bloodstream.
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “It takes much longer than most people think for alcohol to pass through the body which means there is often a danger of people unwittingly driving while still over the legal limit the morning after drinking. I would urge anyone watching the rugby and celebrating with a few drinks, to plan ahead and arrange alternative transport the following morning if they have to travel to work, for the school run, or any other engagements."
He added, “The penalties for being caught drink driving the morning after are exactly the same as at any other time – it’s no excuse to say you thought you were fine to drive because of the length of time since your last drink.”
To download the ‘Morning After’ Calculator and for more information about the campaign visit: http://morning-after.org.uk
For more information about the 2015 Rugby World Cup visit:
http://www.rugbyworldcup.com
And to help fans, it is promoting a 'morning after' smartphone app designed to help people understand when their body could be alcohol-free.
As with all major sporting events, the tournament will be enjoyed and celebrated by millions, with alcohol potentially playing a part in those celebrations.
TfB is urging people to understand how long it takes for alcohol to pass through the body and not to risk getting a drink drive penalty ‘the morning after’.
The penalties for drink driving include a minimum 12 month driving ban, a criminal record, a fine, up to six months in prison and a licence endorsement for 11 years
TfB is promoting the new ‘Morning After Calculator’ app, designed to help people understand when their body could be alcohol-free. It is available free of charge from Google play and the Apple App Store.
The ‘Morning After Calculator’, is intended only as a guide and not intended for people to work out how much they can drink on a night out before driving home. It has been produced to help people calculate roughly when it will be safe to drive the morning after drinking alcohol. The calculator allows one hour for each unit of alcohol, plus an additional hour for the first drink to allow for the alcohol to enter the bloodstream.
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport, said: “It takes much longer than most people think for alcohol to pass through the body which means there is often a danger of people unwittingly driving while still over the legal limit the morning after drinking. I would urge anyone watching the rugby and celebrating with a few drinks, to plan ahead and arrange alternative transport the following morning if they have to travel to work, for the school run, or any other engagements."
He added, “The penalties for being caught drink driving the morning after are exactly the same as at any other time – it’s no excuse to say you thought you were fine to drive because of the length of time since your last drink.”
To download the ‘Morning After’ Calculator and for more information about the campaign visit: http://morning-after.org.uk
For more information about the 2015 Rugby World Cup visit:
http://www.rugbyworldcup.com
Friday, 21 August 2015
"My dad works here..."
Leaving the house at 6.30am, Dan kisses his wife and son goodbye and closes the front door, already dressed in his head-to-toe high-visibility uniform. Vehicle checks done and kit loaded up at the depot, he heads out with his crew for a day of road patching.
Transport for Buckinghamshire’s (TfB's) operational gangs, inspectors and technicians are made up of fathers, sons and brothers as well as mothers, daughters and sisters, all working hard and expecting to return to their most important role within their family at the end of the day, without suffering injury or abuse while at work.
With a summer of road improvements well under way, TfB is reminding all road users to treat those working on the roads with respect. Whilst these improvements will considerably benefit our county, TfB is aware of the frustrations and inconvenience that can be caused by the works.
Road workers often find themselves working close to moving traffic, however their workplace is just as valid as an office, school or shop, and they should be able to expect the same level of respect and courtesy, without fearing verbal or physical abuse.
Unfortunately operatives encounter this kind of behaviour daily, and TfB wants to highlight and discourage this unacceptable conduct, reinforcing the good work carried out each day by the men and women helping to keep our roads safe.
Reports from TfB’s road workers include accounts such as:
“…the driver jumped out of the vehicle and opened his boot to remove a tool. He then approached the lorry, shouting…”
“…Audi sports car approached site at excessive speed, making no attempt to slow down upon seeing the site or crew…”
“…while replacing barriers, I had a member of the public rant and rave at us about the traffic delays due to our lane closure. He would not listen and was very abusive…”
This behaviour can be tough for the operatives and is not only disrespectful, but shows a disappointing lack of support for the hard work that goes into much needed repairs to our roads and footpaths, grass cutting work and other maintenance tasks on and around the highway.
Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said: 'Our guys and girls work tirelessly, day in, day out carrying out work that affects us all. It's a tough job, but some people make it tougher! We all need to remember that these people are someone's dad, mum, daughter or son, and like all of us, should expect to do their job without suffering abuse, and be able to return home to their families unscathed - mentally and physically.
'Our crews are highly professional and are trained to deal with aggression towards them, however I do not expect them to have to put their training into practice and would encourage support and encouragement for the work these men and women do.'
Transport for Buckinghamshire’s (TfB's) operational gangs, inspectors and technicians are made up of fathers, sons and brothers as well as mothers, daughters and sisters, all working hard and expecting to return to their most important role within their family at the end of the day, without suffering injury or abuse while at work.
With a summer of road improvements well under way, TfB is reminding all road users to treat those working on the roads with respect. Whilst these improvements will considerably benefit our county, TfB is aware of the frustrations and inconvenience that can be caused by the works.
Road workers often find themselves working close to moving traffic, however their workplace is just as valid as an office, school or shop, and they should be able to expect the same level of respect and courtesy, without fearing verbal or physical abuse.
Unfortunately operatives encounter this kind of behaviour daily, and TfB wants to highlight and discourage this unacceptable conduct, reinforcing the good work carried out each day by the men and women helping to keep our roads safe.
Reports from TfB’s road workers include accounts such as:
“…the driver jumped out of the vehicle and opened his boot to remove a tool. He then approached the lorry, shouting…”
“…Audi sports car approached site at excessive speed, making no attempt to slow down upon seeing the site or crew…”
“…while replacing barriers, I had a member of the public rant and rave at us about the traffic delays due to our lane closure. He would not listen and was very abusive…”
This behaviour can be tough for the operatives and is not only disrespectful, but shows a disappointing lack of support for the hard work that goes into much needed repairs to our roads and footpaths, grass cutting work and other maintenance tasks on and around the highway.
Mark Shaw, Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said: 'Our guys and girls work tirelessly, day in, day out carrying out work that affects us all. It's a tough job, but some people make it tougher! We all need to remember that these people are someone's dad, mum, daughter or son, and like all of us, should expect to do their job without suffering abuse, and be able to return home to their families unscathed - mentally and physically.
'Our crews are highly professional and are trained to deal with aggression towards them, however I do not expect them to have to put their training into practice and would encourage support and encouragement for the work these men and women do.'
Wednesday, 12 August 2015
Anti graffiti action on canal bridge
Reducing graffiti on our local walls, bridges and underpasses is an ongoing challenge, so when the Aylesbury Society approached Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) with an idea for a mural, TfB jumped at the idea.
Aylesbury High Street canal bridge has suffered with graffiti throughout its life, and the suggestion of painting a mural containing local scenes was warmly welcomed and likely to enhance the area. The Aylesbury Society enlisted the help of Aylesbury Youth Action (AYA) to design and paint the mural which contains reminders of the historic Friars Club, St Mary’s Church, the Hazell Watson and Viney print works, and showing Aylesbury through time with paralympians, the new university campus and the recently erected wind turbine.
Painting designs such as murals has historically shown a reduction in graffiti, and with an addition of a top layer of anti-graffiti coating, this mural should remain in all its glory for many years to come.
Ken Evans from the Aylesbury Society said, "The Aylesbury Society was very impressed by the colourful mural painted by AYA on the wall under the Oakfield Road bridge. They decided it would be an excellent idea to ask the group to paint a mural under the High Street bridge. Approval was obtained from Transport for Buckinghamshire (who own the bridge) a year ago. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since then, but the mural is at last being painted."
Sara Butler, Manager at Aylesbury Youth Action said, "I am delighted that Aylesbury Youth Action has been invited to be part of this exciting project. The young people have enjoyed creating the design, and we look forward to seeing members of the community get involved in creating the mural over the week, assisted by Project Workers Suz and Salma."
Paul Irwin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said, "I'm delighted that we can support initiatives such as this, which will create a beautiful addition to our County Town. The hard work and effort that has gone into designing this piece is clear, and I hope it becomes as much a landmark as the scenes it contains!"
Initiating the idea and fundraising has all been undertaken by the Aylesbury Society, with TfB contributing with preparation of the surface and final anti-graffiti coating and Aylesbury Youth Action providing the design and carrying out the painting.
Ken Evans added, "Generous grants were obtained from Aylesbury Vale Community Chest, the Buckinghamshire Community Foundation & Transport for Bucks. Local firms who sponsored the mural were Motts Travel, Dayla Ltd and Michael Anthony Estate Agents, plus a private donor. The total cost of the project is £4,200."
The mural is now complete and can be viewed in all its glory!
Aylesbury High Street canal bridge has suffered with graffiti throughout its life, and the suggestion of painting a mural containing local scenes was warmly welcomed and likely to enhance the area. The Aylesbury Society enlisted the help of Aylesbury Youth Action (AYA) to design and paint the mural which contains reminders of the historic Friars Club, St Mary’s Church, the Hazell Watson and Viney print works, and showing Aylesbury through time with paralympians, the new university campus and the recently erected wind turbine.
Painting designs such as murals has historically shown a reduction in graffiti, and with an addition of a top layer of anti-graffiti coating, this mural should remain in all its glory for many years to come.
Ken Evans from the Aylesbury Society said, "The Aylesbury Society was very impressed by the colourful mural painted by AYA on the wall under the Oakfield Road bridge. They decided it would be an excellent idea to ask the group to paint a mural under the High Street bridge. Approval was obtained from Transport for Buckinghamshire (who own the bridge) a year ago. A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since then, but the mural is at last being painted."
Sara Butler, Manager at Aylesbury Youth Action said, "I am delighted that Aylesbury Youth Action has been invited to be part of this exciting project. The young people have enjoyed creating the design, and we look forward to seeing members of the community get involved in creating the mural over the week, assisted by Project Workers Suz and Salma."
Paul Irwin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said, "I'm delighted that we can support initiatives such as this, which will create a beautiful addition to our County Town. The hard work and effort that has gone into designing this piece is clear, and I hope it becomes as much a landmark as the scenes it contains!"
Initiating the idea and fundraising has all been undertaken by the Aylesbury Society, with TfB contributing with preparation of the surface and final anti-graffiti coating and Aylesbury Youth Action providing the design and carrying out the painting.
Ken Evans added, "Generous grants were obtained from Aylesbury Vale Community Chest, the Buckinghamshire Community Foundation & Transport for Bucks. Local firms who sponsored the mural were Motts Travel, Dayla Ltd and Michael Anthony Estate Agents, plus a private donor. The total cost of the project is £4,200."
The mural is now complete and can be viewed in all its glory!
Friday, 7 August 2015
Half way mark in the Westbourne Street Link
Buckinghamshire County Council contractors are now half-way through the first phase of a new route through High Wycombe.
The £2 million Westbourne Link, part of High Wycombe's Masterplan, is phase one of a scheme to give traffic an alternative route through the town centre from the A40 (Oxford Road) to Marlow Hill.
They have been working on the Westbourne Street link from Belfield Road junction to Desborough Avenue since May and are due to finish in October.
Night-time closures of Oxford Road have enabled them to build a new section of road linking Westbourne Street to Oxford Road, new kerbs and drainage, utilities diversions, and a culvert in preparation for any future opening up of the River Wye.
Work at night will continue in Oxford Road until October to enable resurfacing and new pavements between The Pastures and Bellfield Road, tree-planting trees and green spaces, and installation of new streetlights and drainage.
Route diversions will remain in place throughout the project.
Phase two of the alternative route, from the southern end of the new Westbourne Street Link, along Desborough Road through the old gas works to Marlow Hill roundabout, is anticipated to start by March 2016.
High Wycombe's Masterplan - a joint project between Wycombe District and Buckinghamshire County Councils - aims to strengthen the town centre as a focus for jobs, shopping and leisure.
The project works programme and general arrangement plan, is updated weekly, on www.buckscc.gov.uk/hwmasterplan
Background notes
Buckinghamshire County Council and Wycombe District Council apologise for any inconvenience caused during the works. To minimise disruption, the works that have the largest impact on the public have been programmed to be done at night.
Tuesday, 28 July 2015
TAYLOR WIMPEY STARTS WORK ON TRAFFIC CALMING MEASURES IN DAWS HILL LANE, HIGH WYCOMBE
Work is set to start to install traffic calming measures in Daws Hill Lane as part of Taylor Wimpey’s Pine Trees development site in Daws Hill, High Wycombe.
The developer is installing a new elongated roundabout creating two new access roads into the RAF Daws Hill site, along with associated carriageway and footpath works, two pedestrian crossings and footpath widening along Daws Hill Lane to Austenwood Close.
Work is due to start on Monday 3rd August 2015, and is anticipated to take approximately 14 weeks to complete for the roundabout. It is envisaged the footpath widening along Daws Hill Lane to Austenwood Close will continue after this period.
The majority of the works will be carried out within the RAF Daws Hill site boundary. However, there will be temporary traffic lights in Daws Hill Lane for approximately 14 weeks, with four of these weeks coinciding with the school summer holidays. Further traffic lights will be required for the footpath widening works, with details of these still to be confirmed.
Jonathan Miller, Technical Director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “Once complete, the traffic calming measures will provide significant improvements for road users and pedestrians.
“We apologise for any inconvenience the roadworks may cause, but would like to assure local people that we are working to ensure that the work is carried out as quickly as possible, keeping disruption to an absolute minimum.”
As part of the works, two bus stops – which will also serve as a school drop-off point for St Michael’s School – are being constructed on the Taylor Wimpey development, which will result in less school and bus traffic using Daws Hill Lane, reducing traffic delays.
The new signalised crossing at the school access will further help to reduce delays, by ensuring a better balance of time is given to vehicles and to pedestrians and preventing traffic being stopped continuously.
Pine Trees will comprise a selection of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, with a choice of five-bedroom properties now available to reserve off-plan from £740,000.
The new homes are currently selling from JNP estate agents, 18 Crendon Street, High Wycombe, HP13 6LS. The Sales Executive is available Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and can be contacted on 01494 412187, while further information is available online at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk.
Information about the traffic calming works is on display for the public to view at Wycombe District Council offices and High Wycombe Library during their normal opening hours.
The developer is installing a new elongated roundabout creating two new access roads into the RAF Daws Hill site, along with associated carriageway and footpath works, two pedestrian crossings and footpath widening along Daws Hill Lane to Austenwood Close.
Work is due to start on Monday 3rd August 2015, and is anticipated to take approximately 14 weeks to complete for the roundabout. It is envisaged the footpath widening along Daws Hill Lane to Austenwood Close will continue after this period.
The majority of the works will be carried out within the RAF Daws Hill site boundary. However, there will be temporary traffic lights in Daws Hill Lane for approximately 14 weeks, with four of these weeks coinciding with the school summer holidays. Further traffic lights will be required for the footpath widening works, with details of these still to be confirmed.
Jonathan Miller, Technical Director for Taylor Wimpey, says: “Once complete, the traffic calming measures will provide significant improvements for road users and pedestrians.
“We apologise for any inconvenience the roadworks may cause, but would like to assure local people that we are working to ensure that the work is carried out as quickly as possible, keeping disruption to an absolute minimum.”
As part of the works, two bus stops – which will also serve as a school drop-off point for St Michael’s School – are being constructed on the Taylor Wimpey development, which will result in less school and bus traffic using Daws Hill Lane, reducing traffic delays.
The new signalised crossing at the school access will further help to reduce delays, by ensuring a better balance of time is given to vehicles and to pedestrians and preventing traffic being stopped continuously.
Pine Trees will comprise a selection of two, three, four and five-bedroom homes, with a choice of five-bedroom properties now available to reserve off-plan from £740,000.
The new homes are currently selling from JNP estate agents, 18 Crendon Street, High Wycombe, HP13 6LS. The Sales Executive is available Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm and can be contacted on 01494 412187, while further information is available online at www.taylorwimpey.co.uk.
Information about the traffic calming works is on display for the public to view at Wycombe District Council offices and High Wycombe Library during their normal opening hours.
Bucks roads improving as programme's first quarter completes
Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) have now completed the first quarter of their resurfacing programme, and with a substantial number of finished sites tucked under their belt, they are getting on with the second quarter and more hard work.
The programme kicked off on the 1 April, and since then TfB have been working through their schedule of over 320 schemes. This schedule consists of:
• Over 90 conventional surfacing schemes.
• Over 150 micro surfacing schemes.
• 30 surface dressing schemes.
• 50 footway surfacing schemes.
The following progress has been made:
• 18 conventional carriageway surfacing schemes have been completed, equating to 80,000m² of road surface.
• Preparatory work is in progress on micro surfacing and surface dressing schemes in readiness for the major work at a later date.
• Micro-surfacing programme is now in progress
• Almost half of all conventional footway surfacing schemes have been completed – ahead of schedule
• Footway preparatory work has begun for slurry surfacing schemes
Looking ahead, TfB are about to commence the schemes that have been subject to BCC’s benchmarking exercise, which demonstrates TfB is delivering value for money and compares favourably with levels and standards being achieved nationally. This will comprise 40 resurfacing schemes.
In addition to this, they aim to achieve by the end of September:
• Completion of over 50% of the conventional surfacing programme.
• Completion of the surface dressing programme.
• Completion of 40% of the micro surfacing programme.
• Start of benchmarking schemes on site.
• Start of footway slurry surfacing schemes on site.
• Start of high friction surfacing programme.
• Start of plane and patch schemes on site.
In addition, a further £3m plane and patch programme has been identified which will be spread over two years. A site list has been drawn up and added to the programme to be underway by the end of September.
Paul Irwin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said, “We have made brilliant progress with our resurfacing programme and are ahead of schedule in some areas. The good weather has helped us, along with a great delivery team who are highly experienced in managing schemes of this magnitude. I’m looking forward to a successful second quarter and some more excellent improvements to our County’s roads.”
TfB has received some great feedback for schemes that they have completed during this quarter. Silverstone Circuit Ltd said, "Buckinghamshire County Council rose to the challenge... the works have been completed in good time for the 2015 Formula One British Grand Prix, meaning customers, as well as local road users will benefit from the much improved surface."
And West Wycombe Parish Council commented that, "The job was finished perfectly on time and we really appreciate everyone's hard work. Thank you BCC/TfB."
TfB couldn’t complete their packed programme without high quality contractors, and this season they have issued two ‘Gold Notices’ – one to Eurovia for their work on The Pastures in High Wycombe, and one to Stabilised Pavements for their work on Silverstone Road, Dadford. These notices reinforce and recognise good practice and are only awarded for the very highest quality of delivery.
The programme kicked off on the 1 April, and since then TfB have been working through their schedule of over 320 schemes. This schedule consists of:
• Over 90 conventional surfacing schemes.
• Over 150 micro surfacing schemes.
• 30 surface dressing schemes.
• 50 footway surfacing schemes.
The following progress has been made:
• 18 conventional carriageway surfacing schemes have been completed, equating to 80,000m² of road surface.
• Preparatory work is in progress on micro surfacing and surface dressing schemes in readiness for the major work at a later date.
• Micro-surfacing programme is now in progress
• Almost half of all conventional footway surfacing schemes have been completed – ahead of schedule
• Footway preparatory work has begun for slurry surfacing schemes
Looking ahead, TfB are about to commence the schemes that have been subject to BCC’s benchmarking exercise, which demonstrates TfB is delivering value for money and compares favourably with levels and standards being achieved nationally. This will comprise 40 resurfacing schemes.
In addition to this, they aim to achieve by the end of September:
• Completion of over 50% of the conventional surfacing programme.
• Completion of the surface dressing programme.
• Completion of 40% of the micro surfacing programme.
• Start of benchmarking schemes on site.
• Start of footway slurry surfacing schemes on site.
• Start of high friction surfacing programme.
• Start of plane and patch schemes on site.
In addition, a further £3m plane and patch programme has been identified which will be spread over two years. A site list has been drawn up and added to the programme to be underway by the end of September.
Paul Irwin, Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport at Buckinghamshire County Council said, “We have made brilliant progress with our resurfacing programme and are ahead of schedule in some areas. The good weather has helped us, along with a great delivery team who are highly experienced in managing schemes of this magnitude. I’m looking forward to a successful second quarter and some more excellent improvements to our County’s roads.”
TfB has received some great feedback for schemes that they have completed during this quarter. Silverstone Circuit Ltd said, "Buckinghamshire County Council rose to the challenge... the works have been completed in good time for the 2015 Formula One British Grand Prix, meaning customers, as well as local road users will benefit from the much improved surface."
And West Wycombe Parish Council commented that, "The job was finished perfectly on time and we really appreciate everyone's hard work. Thank you BCC/TfB."
TfB couldn’t complete their packed programme without high quality contractors, and this season they have issued two ‘Gold Notices’ – one to Eurovia for their work on The Pastures in High Wycombe, and one to Stabilised Pavements for their work on Silverstone Road, Dadford. These notices reinforce and recognise good practice and are only awarded for the very highest quality of delivery.
Friday, 17 July 2015
Champion road crews race to smooth the Silverstone surface
Whilst world champion F1 drivers were planning how to take the Silverstone surface, surfacing of a different kind had been going on along the roads outside.
As part of the investment in the County’s road network, Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) road crews were working around the clock to complete a challenging and innovative road reconstruction project on Dadford Road, in the very north of the county, on the approach to the Grand Prix circuit. The road had been one of those earmarked for improvement after road condition surveys, examination by technicians and following consultation with local councillors.
In just over five weeks, TfB crews reconstructed and resurfaced a two and a half mile length between Dadford and Silverstone.
As well as this work, the team also carried out essential drainage and landscaping, along with new signs and road markings, taking full advantage of the road closure in place.
Dave Stewart, Transport for Buckinghamshire Schemes Delivery Manager, said they'd set themselves set a tight schedule, and praised the dedication of the workforce:
"I'm delighted that this challenging project has been successfully delivered on time and budget. We've kept costs down, improved safety and been environmentally friendly at the same time. The work included recycling of significant quantities of old surface materials, bringing environmental and cost benefits and minimising haulage on local roads."
Alex Lacey, Head of Events for Silverstone Circuits Ltd. was also very impressed the way the works were carried out, "Transport for Buckinghamshire set themselves a considerable challenge in April to undertake this work within timescales," he said. "They rose to this challenge and, through a close working relationship and regular communications between all parties, the works were completed in good time for the 2015 Formula One British Grand Prix, meaning customers, as well as local road users, will benefit from the much improved road surface."
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Transport said: "We've now got a road surface that residents - and even F1 drivers - would be proud of! I know it was a big challenge to work towards such a high profile target as the Grand Prix weekend, and I congratulate the team for their determination and drive to take the chequered flag first!"
As part of the investment in the County’s road network, Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) road crews were working around the clock to complete a challenging and innovative road reconstruction project on Dadford Road, in the very north of the county, on the approach to the Grand Prix circuit. The road had been one of those earmarked for improvement after road condition surveys, examination by technicians and following consultation with local councillors.
In just over five weeks, TfB crews reconstructed and resurfaced a two and a half mile length between Dadford and Silverstone.
As well as this work, the team also carried out essential drainage and landscaping, along with new signs and road markings, taking full advantage of the road closure in place.
Dave Stewart, Transport for Buckinghamshire Schemes Delivery Manager, said they'd set themselves set a tight schedule, and praised the dedication of the workforce:
"I'm delighted that this challenging project has been successfully delivered on time and budget. We've kept costs down, improved safety and been environmentally friendly at the same time. The work included recycling of significant quantities of old surface materials, bringing environmental and cost benefits and minimising haulage on local roads."
Alex Lacey, Head of Events for Silverstone Circuits Ltd. was also very impressed the way the works were carried out, "Transport for Buckinghamshire set themselves a considerable challenge in April to undertake this work within timescales," he said. "They rose to this challenge and, through a close working relationship and regular communications between all parties, the works were completed in good time for the 2015 Formula One British Grand Prix, meaning customers, as well as local road users, will benefit from the much improved road surface."
Mark Shaw, Buckinghamshire County Council Cabinet Member for Transport said: "We've now got a road surface that residents - and even F1 drivers - would be proud of! I know it was a big challenge to work towards such a high profile target as the Grand Prix weekend, and I congratulate the team for their determination and drive to take the chequered flag first!"
Friday, 26 June 2015
Roadworks about to start - Hughenden Avenue
Notification of works
Works are due to commence on Hughenden Avenue on the 29 June related to the new spine road. The following work is scheduled to take place:
Hughenden Avenue
A four-way signal-controlled junction will be constructed linking Bellfield Road to Hughenden Avenue and Hughenden Avenue to Coates Lane.
The eastbound approach lane to the west of the new junction will be widened to accommodate a bus stop with the existing footpath realigned to the north accommodating underground services diversion works.
The existing central refuge is to be removed and relocated to the east of the junction and a controlled pedestrian crossing will be constructed to the west of the junction. New street lighting will be installed.
The condition of the existing carriageway surface is currently being reviewed and a decision on the extent of necessary reconstruction will be made once this is considered.
Traffic Management
Works on Hughenden Avenue will generally be completed under restricted hours working, 09:30 to 15:30 Monday to Friday for 6 weeks, using temporary 2-way signal control.
From 3 August, carriageway reconstruction works will be undertaken which may require periods of 24-hour temporary signals operation and/or road closures. A further update will be issued prior to this work with more details.
Estimated dates/duration
Works in Hughenden Avenue will commence on the South verge from 29 June 2015 for 6 weeks. No road closures will be in place - work will be undertaken using traffic signals.
Reconstruction works to include the North verge and both lanes of the carriageway will commence from 3 August 2015 over 8 weeks. Details of any road closures associated with this will be issued in due course.
This is a Wycombe District Council project, with Buckinghamshire County Council coordinating the work as highway authority. More information on this scheme can be found here:
http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/planning-and-buildings/planning-news/hughenden-quarter-proposal.aspx
Works are due to commence on Hughenden Avenue on the 29 June related to the new spine road. The following work is scheduled to take place:
Hughenden Avenue
A four-way signal-controlled junction will be constructed linking Bellfield Road to Hughenden Avenue and Hughenden Avenue to Coates Lane.
The eastbound approach lane to the west of the new junction will be widened to accommodate a bus stop with the existing footpath realigned to the north accommodating underground services diversion works.
The existing central refuge is to be removed and relocated to the east of the junction and a controlled pedestrian crossing will be constructed to the west of the junction. New street lighting will be installed.
The condition of the existing carriageway surface is currently being reviewed and a decision on the extent of necessary reconstruction will be made once this is considered.
Traffic Management
Works on Hughenden Avenue will generally be completed under restricted hours working, 09:30 to 15:30 Monday to Friday for 6 weeks, using temporary 2-way signal control.
From 3 August, carriageway reconstruction works will be undertaken which may require periods of 24-hour temporary signals operation and/or road closures. A further update will be issued prior to this work with more details.
Estimated dates/duration
Works in Hughenden Avenue will commence on the South verge from 29 June 2015 for 6 weeks. No road closures will be in place - work will be undertaken using traffic signals.
Reconstruction works to include the North verge and both lanes of the carriageway will commence from 3 August 2015 over 8 weeks. Details of any road closures associated with this will be issued in due course.
This is a Wycombe District Council project, with Buckinghamshire County Council coordinating the work as highway authority. More information on this scheme can be found here:
http://www.wycombe.gov.uk/council-services/planning-and-buildings/planning-news/hughenden-quarter-proposal.aspx
Night-time road closures announced as work continues on Town Centre Masterplan
The High Wycombe Masterplan road redevelopment is progressing well since it started on 21 May this year, with work continuing on the Westbourne Street section of the plan.
In order to allow major carriageway works on the A40 to be completed as quickly as possible, an overnight road closure will come into effect along the A40 from the A40 Pastures / Desborough Avenue Junction to Abbey Way / A4128 Arch Way Roundabout. The closure will take place from 19:00 to 06:00 every night from 29 June to 7 August. To aid with traffic flows across High Wycombe during the closure, a diversion route will be put in place, which is Desborough Avenue – Marlow Road – A4010 Marlow Hill – Abbey Way – A4128 Arch Way – Peter Knoll Way – Bellfield Road.
Variable message signs are in operation across High Wycombe to advise drivers of the temporary arrangements. Weekly bulletins, Twitter and website updates are also being used to inform residents and encourage road users to plan their journeys in advance.
The County Council's priority is to ensure that this development is ready as soon as possible, but would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused while works are underway.
As part of the construction works, further road closures are expected in future, and more information will be made available at the earliest opportunity.
For more information regarding the Masterplan, see the County Council website www.buckscc.gov.uk/hwmasterplan
In order to allow major carriageway works on the A40 to be completed as quickly as possible, an overnight road closure will come into effect along the A40 from the A40 Pastures / Desborough Avenue Junction to Abbey Way / A4128 Arch Way Roundabout. The closure will take place from 19:00 to 06:00 every night from 29 June to 7 August. To aid with traffic flows across High Wycombe during the closure, a diversion route will be put in place, which is Desborough Avenue – Marlow Road – A4010 Marlow Hill – Abbey Way – A4128 Arch Way – Peter Knoll Way – Bellfield Road.
Variable message signs are in operation across High Wycombe to advise drivers of the temporary arrangements. Weekly bulletins, Twitter and website updates are also being used to inform residents and encourage road users to plan their journeys in advance.
The County Council's priority is to ensure that this development is ready as soon as possible, but would like to apologise for the inconvenience caused while works are underway.
As part of the construction works, further road closures are expected in future, and more information will be made available at the earliest opportunity.
For more information regarding the Masterplan, see the County Council website www.buckscc.gov.uk/hwmasterplan
Friday, 19 June 2015
Could you be our next apprentice?
We need apprentices!!
Please forward on to any school leavers or anyone you think would be interested. These apprenticeships are a really good opportunity to get into the workplace and learn a skill, so it's definitely worth investigating if you know someone who is unsure about their next step!
Ringway Jacobs is a leading UK provider of integrated services for highway maintenance and management. We work with our clients to plan, programme and deliver highly efficient services. We are now looking for Apprentices for our Transport for Buckinghamshire contract.
Highways maintenance apprentices,
Street lighting apprentices,
Civil engineering apprentices and
Business Administration apprentices are being sought.
Applicants must be hard working, enthusiastic, enjoy working outside and able to work in a team environment. An independent character is essential as the role may involve short periods staying away from home.
The programme covers all aspects of the chosen discipline through a combination of college based class room delivery and on site experience with a full apprenticeship framework qualification. The scheme runs for 2 years and includes a salary of £5.12 per hour and a 40 hour working week
To apply please forward your current CV outlining which apprenticeship you would like to be considered for to recruitment@ringwayjacobs.com
To see the advert, visit www.ringway-jacobs.co.uk/opportunities/various-apprenticeships
Closing date 17th July
Please forward on to any school leavers or anyone you think would be interested. These apprenticeships are a really good opportunity to get into the workplace and learn a skill, so it's definitely worth investigating if you know someone who is unsure about their next step!
Ringway Jacobs is a leading UK provider of integrated services for highway maintenance and management. We work with our clients to plan, programme and deliver highly efficient services. We are now looking for Apprentices for our Transport for Buckinghamshire contract.
Highways maintenance apprentices,
Street lighting apprentices,
Civil engineering apprentices and
Business Administration apprentices are being sought.
Applicants must be hard working, enthusiastic, enjoy working outside and able to work in a team environment. An independent character is essential as the role may involve short periods staying away from home.
The programme covers all aspects of the chosen discipline through a combination of college based class room delivery and on site experience with a full apprenticeship framework qualification. The scheme runs for 2 years and includes a salary of £5.12 per hour and a 40 hour working week
To apply please forward your current CV outlining which apprenticeship you would like to be considered for to recruitment@ringwayjacobs.com
To see the advert, visit www.ringway-jacobs.co.uk/opportunities/various-apprenticeships
Closing date 17th July
Friday, 22 May 2015
£3 million to target county's rural roads
The release of £3 million from the County Council reserves will fund resurfacing work on Buckinghamshire's minor roads.
County councillors today (Thursday May 21) unanimously agreed to add the £3m to £25m already earmarked for restoration work on the roads this year.
The £3m will pay for a 12-month programme of 'plane and patch' work to resurface badly worn sections of roads in around 300 locations, mainly unclassified rural routes, starting in September.
Leader Martin Tett said: 'These unclassified roads wouldn't normally be covered by our resurfacing schemes, but they're nevertheless important for those who use them. This money should make a significant improvement, particularly in our most rural areas.'
During the next three months Transport for Buckinghamshire will assess the roads, consult with County Councillors and submit the proposed programme to Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw for decision.
Mark told councillors he was confident the 300 schemes could be delivered through TfB's asset management team. 'This is a challenge we'll meet head on, and focus on getting good quality and good value for money,' he said.
County councillors today (Thursday May 21) unanimously agreed to add the £3m to £25m already earmarked for restoration work on the roads this year.
The £3m will pay for a 12-month programme of 'plane and patch' work to resurface badly worn sections of roads in around 300 locations, mainly unclassified rural routes, starting in September.
Leader Martin Tett said: 'These unclassified roads wouldn't normally be covered by our resurfacing schemes, but they're nevertheless important for those who use them. This money should make a significant improvement, particularly in our most rural areas.'
During the next three months Transport for Buckinghamshire will assess the roads, consult with County Councillors and submit the proposed programme to Transport Cabinet Member Mark Shaw for decision.
Mark told councillors he was confident the 300 schemes could be delivered through TfB's asset management team. 'This is a challenge we'll meet head on, and focus on getting good quality and good value for money,' he said.
Tuesday, 19 May 2015
Road safety warning to parents about child car seats
Officers from Transport for Buckinghamshire and Thames Valley Police were out during Global Road Safety Week advising motorists on the importance of making sure children are safely strapped into the correct car seats.
The team visited Millbrook School and Asda supermarket in High Wycombe during the week (4 – 10 May) to hand out information and offer advice.
During one morning they spoke to 60 parents and carers at the two venues giving out key safety messages on the correct fitting of seatbelts and children’s car seats.
A large number of seats were found to be incorrectly fitted: straps were not secured tightly enough, were twisted, or the child had slipped them off. Not wearing a seatbelt or not using it correctly can be a fatal decision, even on short, familiar journeys and at low speed.
Mike Freestone, Buckinghamshire County Council Director of Transport Services said: 'The importance of this campaign cannot be emphasised enough, given that every day more than 500 children are killed on the world’s roads and many thousands more are injured.
'I'm really grateful for the partnership working we have here to spread this vital safety message.'
Mike said there were many free resources available to schools and clubs, and he urged parents and carers to look at these to help keep young people safe on the roads.
Peter Hare, Road Safety Constable for Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes said: 'I would like to stress that the seat must be appropriate for the age and size of the child. It must be securely fixed with the straps hugging the child, not allowing them to remove their arms from the straps. I would also recommend not wearing thick clothing as this allows them to slip out of the belts and if it is cold, cover them and the seat, rather than wrapping them within the seat. Please take the time to ensure your loved one is securely strapped in their seat, because in a crash that’s the safest place for them to be.'
Global Road Safety Week information:
http://www.who.int/roadsafety/week/2015/en/
Free Child Road safety Resources:
http://www.roadsafetygb.org.uk/pages/roadsafetyweek/rsw-resources.html
Information on the law and fitting car seats:
http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules
The team visited Millbrook School and Asda supermarket in High Wycombe during the week (4 – 10 May) to hand out information and offer advice.
During one morning they spoke to 60 parents and carers at the two venues giving out key safety messages on the correct fitting of seatbelts and children’s car seats.
A large number of seats were found to be incorrectly fitted: straps were not secured tightly enough, were twisted, or the child had slipped them off. Not wearing a seatbelt or not using it correctly can be a fatal decision, even on short, familiar journeys and at low speed.
Mike Freestone, Buckinghamshire County Council Director of Transport Services said: 'The importance of this campaign cannot be emphasised enough, given that every day more than 500 children are killed on the world’s roads and many thousands more are injured.
'I'm really grateful for the partnership working we have here to spread this vital safety message.'
Mike said there were many free resources available to schools and clubs, and he urged parents and carers to look at these to help keep young people safe on the roads.
Peter Hare, Road Safety Constable for Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes said: 'I would like to stress that the seat must be appropriate for the age and size of the child. It must be securely fixed with the straps hugging the child, not allowing them to remove their arms from the straps. I would also recommend not wearing thick clothing as this allows them to slip out of the belts and if it is cold, cover them and the seat, rather than wrapping them within the seat. Please take the time to ensure your loved one is securely strapped in their seat, because in a crash that’s the safest place for them to be.'
Global Road Safety Week information:
http://www.who.int/roadsafety/week/2015/en/
Free Child Road safety Resources:
http://www.roadsafetygb.org.uk/pages/roadsafetyweek/rsw-resources.html
Information on the law and fitting car seats:
http://www.childcarseats.org.uk/
https://www.gov.uk/child-car-seats-the-rules
Transport for Buckinghamshire supports Global Road Safety Week
Global Road Safety Week (GRSW) is running from the 4-10 May 2015 and Transport for Buckinghamshire is promoting this event on behalf of Road Safety GB (lead organisation), which seeks to highlight the plight of children on the world’s roads and generate action to better ensure their safety.
The week features hundreds of events hosted by governments, international agencies, civil society organisations, and private companies.
Mike Freestone Director of Transport Services said “Every day more than 500 children across the globe lose their lives in traffic collisions and thousands are injured. Global Road Safety Week will highlight these appalling statistics and raise awareness of the need for action on this crucial road safety issue. Locally, Transport for Buckinghamshire intend to use Global Road Safety Week to promote the free resources available to schools to help deliver road safety education and ultimately reduce child casualties.”
The campaign includes:
• A series of child road safety resources - including activity sheets, maps and country profilers – which are available free to download.
• A series of simple ‘how to’ guides to help educators and others teach basic road safety to children. The guides cover children as pedestrians, cyclists, travelling in cars and on public transport, and setting up a Junior Road Safety Officer scheme.
• A database of road safety professionals with expertise with regard to child road safety, who are willing to provide advice and support to people in other parts of the world.
There is also an opportunity for parents, teachers and other interested parties to submit questions for a series of free online forums covering child road safety issues, which will be held on the Road Safety GB website during Global Road Safety Week.
The online forums – covering children as pedestrians, as cyclists, travelling in cars, and how to set up and run a Junior Road Safety Officer scheme - will be held daily on Tuesday 7 – Friday 10 May inclusive, between 12.00 - 13.00.
Questions can be submitted in advance or during the forum itself, for a panel of expert facilitators to answer in ‘real time’ during the forum.
The forums are part of a comprehensive suite of initiatives here in the UK in support of GRSW 2015.
The week features hundreds of events hosted by governments, international agencies, civil society organisations, and private companies.
Mike Freestone Director of Transport Services said “Every day more than 500 children across the globe lose their lives in traffic collisions and thousands are injured. Global Road Safety Week will highlight these appalling statistics and raise awareness of the need for action on this crucial road safety issue. Locally, Transport for Buckinghamshire intend to use Global Road Safety Week to promote the free resources available to schools to help deliver road safety education and ultimately reduce child casualties.”
The campaign includes:
• A series of child road safety resources - including activity sheets, maps and country profilers – which are available free to download.
• A series of simple ‘how to’ guides to help educators and others teach basic road safety to children. The guides cover children as pedestrians, cyclists, travelling in cars and on public transport, and setting up a Junior Road Safety Officer scheme.
• A database of road safety professionals with expertise with regard to child road safety, who are willing to provide advice and support to people in other parts of the world.
There is also an opportunity for parents, teachers and other interested parties to submit questions for a series of free online forums covering child road safety issues, which will be held on the Road Safety GB website during Global Road Safety Week.
The online forums – covering children as pedestrians, as cyclists, travelling in cars, and how to set up and run a Junior Road Safety Officer scheme - will be held daily on Tuesday 7 – Friday 10 May inclusive, between 12.00 - 13.00.
Questions can be submitted in advance or during the forum itself, for a panel of expert facilitators to answer in ‘real time’ during the forum.
The forums are part of a comprehensive suite of initiatives here in the UK in support of GRSW 2015.
Friday, 17 April 2015
TfB's winter round up
With the dark nights of winter a distant memory, you may be surprised to know that Transport for Buckinghamshire's winter season runs right up until the 14th April. Having just finished with the winter duties, here's a brief summary of the season from TfB.
We may not have encountered any prolonged severe weather events over the winter, but TfB still worked hard to keep the roads safe.
Previous winters have seen flooding and snow accumulations, however this season saw 196 hours of sunshine - the most UK winter sunshine hours since records began, back in 1929.
Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) monitors road temperatures from mid October until mid April and their gritter drivers are on call throughout. Five forecasts each day helped decision makers with the daily judgement call. Air temperatures, road temperatures, humidity and dew point were all monitored from stations around the county and the resultant decision saw gritter drivers being sent out on their routes across the county, or stood down if road temperatures were not forecast to drop below zero.
Each route used an average of 85 tonnes of salt, so decisions were not taken lightly. For this reason, separate decisions were made for the north and south of the county. 48 gritting runs were carried out in the north of the county, and 40 in the south. A total of 5500 tonnes of salt has been used through winter and 63,250 kilometres of road covered over the season.
Winter operations are a year round task, and managers are now making plans for the next season! Ordering salt and checking gritting routes as well as ensuring staff receive refresher training and updating plans will all be undertaken over the summer, ready for the start of the next season in October.
We may not have encountered any prolonged severe weather events over the winter, but TfB still worked hard to keep the roads safe.
Previous winters have seen flooding and snow accumulations, however this season saw 196 hours of sunshine - the most UK winter sunshine hours since records began, back in 1929.
Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) monitors road temperatures from mid October until mid April and their gritter drivers are on call throughout. Five forecasts each day helped decision makers with the daily judgement call. Air temperatures, road temperatures, humidity and dew point were all monitored from stations around the county and the resultant decision saw gritter drivers being sent out on their routes across the county, or stood down if road temperatures were not forecast to drop below zero.
Each route used an average of 85 tonnes of salt, so decisions were not taken lightly. For this reason, separate decisions were made for the north and south of the county. 48 gritting runs were carried out in the north of the county, and 40 in the south. A total of 5500 tonnes of salt has been used through winter and 63,250 kilometres of road covered over the season.
Winter operations are a year round task, and managers are now making plans for the next season! Ordering salt and checking gritting routes as well as ensuring staff receive refresher training and updating plans will all be undertaken over the summer, ready for the start of the next season in October.
Tuesday, 14 April 2015
Council drive for value for money roadworks
As the County Council's current £25 million investment programme to improve roads begins, the focus is firmly on taking steps to achieve the best possible value for money for over 200 separate schemes planned for the coming year.
Working through its provider, Transport for Buckinghamshire, the Council already has strict controls in place to make sure all roadworks carried out deliver value for money and compare favourably with levels and standards being achieved nationally by other councils.
However, this year the Council is going a step further and subjecting £10 million of the programme to even more stringent market testing so that the best prices and standards can be achieved for local council taxpayers.
The County Council's Cabinet Member for Transportation, Ruth Vigor-Hedderly said it was an important part of her role to make sure proper value for money was being delivered.
She said, "We must remember this is public money and we have a duty to make sure we spent it as wisely as possible. This year we will be offering £10 million of work to a wider potential market. This means we can gain even more knowledge about the current marketplace and what options we might use for future roadworks. We are also arranging additional monitoring of roadworks to make sure work is delivered on time and to the quality standards we set.
"This year, we will be delivering the largest road surfacing programme since 2009 as we continue the task of getting our roads back in shape. The more we can stretch every penny of our resources, the more we can do on the ground.
Full details of the countywide programme are available at buckscc.gov.uk/transport or follow TfB on Twitter @TfBalerts.
Working through its provider, Transport for Buckinghamshire, the Council already has strict controls in place to make sure all roadworks carried out deliver value for money and compare favourably with levels and standards being achieved nationally by other councils.
However, this year the Council is going a step further and subjecting £10 million of the programme to even more stringent market testing so that the best prices and standards can be achieved for local council taxpayers.
The County Council's Cabinet Member for Transportation, Ruth Vigor-Hedderly said it was an important part of her role to make sure proper value for money was being delivered.
She said, "We must remember this is public money and we have a duty to make sure we spent it as wisely as possible. This year we will be offering £10 million of work to a wider potential market. This means we can gain even more knowledge about the current marketplace and what options we might use for future roadworks. We are also arranging additional monitoring of roadworks to make sure work is delivered on time and to the quality standards we set.
"This year, we will be delivering the largest road surfacing programme since 2009 as we continue the task of getting our roads back in shape. The more we can stretch every penny of our resources, the more we can do on the ground.
Full details of the countywide programme are available at buckscc.gov.uk/transport or follow TfB on Twitter @TfBalerts.
Grass Cutting Season Starts!
Working in partnership with Buckinghamshire County Council’s ongoing parish devolution project, Transport for Buckinghamshire (TfB) is responsible for cutting the majority of highway verges around the county so the travelling public can use the roads and pavements safely. Each season they cut over 30 million square metres of grass which includes verges in residential areas, rural roads and at road junctions. This amount of grass is roughly equivalent to cutting the lawns of approximately 71,000 homes, so is no small task for the organisation.
Urban grass cutting
This year, six cuts are planned to take place in urban areas across the county, which started on the 30 March with the first cut will take approximately 6 weeks to complete, The second cut will take approximately 5 weeks, and the remaining four cuts will take 4 weeks each, reflecting the normal grass growing rate through the cutting season.
Nine dedicated gangs will operate across the county, each gang cutting the equivalent of 4 football pitches every day. TfB has brought in new machinery, able to operate under a wider range of conditions including thicker and damper grass than in previous seasons. Grass cutting is still weather dependent, however, and therefore some flexibility in the programme may be required, with the safety of the operatives paramount.
Devolution to Parishes
A number of Parishes have signed an agreement to take over responsibility for a number of County Council activities, including their own urban grass cutting. In these Parishes, urban grass cutting programmes will be managed by the Parish, not TfB, although TfB will retain responsibility for rural grass cutting within all Parishes.
Twenty three parishes have signed agreements and a further 26 have committed to the scheme.
Rural grass cutting
The grass is cut in rural areas to ensure traffic, pedestrians and road signs can be seen. This season, two cuts will be carried out, with a further cut taking place at bends and road junctions, specifically considering road safety. The first cut will take place in May/June, with the second in July/August. The further cut around junctions will take place in September/October 2015.
Roadside verges in the county provide a habitat for many rare species of flora and fauna, some of which are identified as areas of ‘special botanical interest’. These areas will not be cut between 1 March and the end of August so that plants can flower. In the autumn the verges will be cut to remove the deadheads and help spread the seeds.
TfB has issued some guidance for the public to help them get the best cut possible…
- Please do not park on grass verges;
- Please do not place stones or logs on verges as these can be dangerous;
- Please let TfB know about any junction where visibility is blocked by long grass/weeds or overgrown hedges.
- Contact TfB if you recognise any noxious weed such as Japanese Knotweed or Ragwort on the highway verge.
- Remove your wheelie bin from verges as soon as possible after it has been emptied.
Mike Freestone, Buckinghamshire County Council Director of Transport Services said, “TfB is set up with new machinery, a robust programme and a competent workforce, so we are set to ensure that the grass cutting is carried out efficiently, effectively and on programme. Please do not expect a ‘bowling green’ type cut, however, we must be realistic about the cutting process and understand that safety requirements such as visibility at junctions comes first.”
Information on TfB’s grass cutting programme, along with frequently asked questions, can be found on their website – www.buckscc.gov.uk/grasscutting. The programme can also be found on their maps, where you can see the areas that have already been cut, and those programmed for a visit within the next 3 weeks - http://www.transportforbucks.net/Public-Maps-Page.aspx.
Tuesday, 7 April 2015
£25 Million Road Resurfacing Programme Launch
The 1 April signalled the commencement of the major 2015/16 Countywide Road Surfacing Programme being delivered by Transport for Buckinghamshire on behalf of Buckinghamshire County Council.
£25m has been invested to improve the road network in 2015/16 and will incorporate over 220 schemes which will include both strategic routes and residential roads.
Treatment types have been determined by Transport for Buckinghamshire engineers, and will vary to meet the needs of each individual site.
This year’s programme commenced on the morning of 1 April on A41 Bicester Road to the west of Waddeston with pre-patching work in preparation for surface dressing treatment of the A41, which will take place during July 2015.
Mike Freestone, Director of Transport Services attended the launch event and stressed: "With a programme of this size, there will be unavoidable disruption on the network for which we apologise in advance, however we will ensure that we programme the most disruptive of the schemes during the school holidays. We will also carry out a significant amount of this work overnight which will help to minimise the effect of this programme on travelling public. A really important part of this year’s programme is that we have selected £10 million to be subject to market testing to better evaluate options for future works."
Simon Dando, Service Director for Transport for Buckinghamshire added: "This year we will be delivering the largest road surfacing programme since Transport for Buckinghamshire began in 2009 and we are delighted to be carrying out this work on behalf of the County Council. Please bear a thought for our gangs and contractors who will be working on the highway to make improvements for everyone. Unfortunately a minority of motorists are discourteous to our workforce, and even putting them in danger by driving at speed through traffic lights. Please give them the respect that they deserve whilst they carry out their important work."
Full details of the Countywide programme are currently being finalised and will be posted at buckscc.gov.uk/transport - or follow us on Twitter @TfBalerts. Daily tweets will be sent to show where we are working. Residents and businesses affected by the works will be notified in advance of specific works taking place.
Notes to editors:
Programmes will be developed as the year progresses but are very weather dependent so subject to considerable change.
Transport for Buckinghamshire is a partnership alliance between Ringway Jacobs and Buckinghamshire County Council formed in 2009.
Next week we will be working at:
A41 Bicester Road, Kingswood and A41 Gallows Bridge Junction: Tuesday 7th April – Friday 17th April
Night time surfacing works carried out utilising a road closure in operation between 19:00 and 06:00hrs
Desborough Avenue, High Wycombe: Tuesday 7th April – Monday 13th April
Night time surfacing works carried out utilising a road closure in operation between 19:00 and 06:00hrs
There will be no weekend working unless otherwise stated.
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Roadworks-Centre/Schemes-and-projects/Our-schemes-and-projects/Road-treatment-programme.aspx
• Budget of £45 million available over the next three years
• £25 million being used for 2015 / 2016, including £10 million that has been subject to market testing to better evaluate options for future programmes
• In excess of 200 roads will be treated in 2015 / 2016
• Roads chosen for treatment are a combination of those chosen by local Members, under guidance of TfB, and those shown by road condition survey data to require priority treatment.
• Depending on condition of road, the types of treatment used are:
o Surface dressing – Surface dressing is the most cost-effective way of extending the life of a road, as long as the surface has not already deteriorated too far. It is used to restore skid resistance and to seal cracks that may be in the used surface to stop water seeping into the road. Surface dressing also protects the road against the majority of damage caused by severe winter weather.
o Micro-surfacing – Micro surfacing is a fast, effective and economical way to preserve and protect the road and pavement surface and is generally used where surface dressing is not suitable but where a full depth road reconstruction is not required. The surface is ready for use just hours after application. It improves skid resistance without producing loose chippings and fills small cracks and imperfections in the road surface with a capability to smooth out bumps in the roads.
o Re-surfacing – When a road is so badly damaged for either micro surfacing or surface dressing to be effective we may need to replace the whole surface. Resurfacing involves digging out the worst affected areas or the road surface and laying new hot bituminous material.
£25m has been invested to improve the road network in 2015/16 and will incorporate over 220 schemes which will include both strategic routes and residential roads.
Treatment types have been determined by Transport for Buckinghamshire engineers, and will vary to meet the needs of each individual site.
This year’s programme commenced on the morning of 1 April on A41 Bicester Road to the west of Waddeston with pre-patching work in preparation for surface dressing treatment of the A41, which will take place during July 2015.
Mike Freestone, Director of Transport Services attended the launch event and stressed: "With a programme of this size, there will be unavoidable disruption on the network for which we apologise in advance, however we will ensure that we programme the most disruptive of the schemes during the school holidays. We will also carry out a significant amount of this work overnight which will help to minimise the effect of this programme on travelling public. A really important part of this year’s programme is that we have selected £10 million to be subject to market testing to better evaluate options for future works."
Simon Dando, Service Director for Transport for Buckinghamshire added: "This year we will be delivering the largest road surfacing programme since Transport for Buckinghamshire began in 2009 and we are delighted to be carrying out this work on behalf of the County Council. Please bear a thought for our gangs and contractors who will be working on the highway to make improvements for everyone. Unfortunately a minority of motorists are discourteous to our workforce, and even putting them in danger by driving at speed through traffic lights. Please give them the respect that they deserve whilst they carry out their important work."
Full details of the Countywide programme are currently being finalised and will be posted at buckscc.gov.uk/transport - or follow us on Twitter @TfBalerts. Daily tweets will be sent to show where we are working. Residents and businesses affected by the works will be notified in advance of specific works taking place.
Notes to editors:
Programmes will be developed as the year progresses but are very weather dependent so subject to considerable change.
Transport for Buckinghamshire is a partnership alliance between Ringway Jacobs and Buckinghamshire County Council formed in 2009.
Next week we will be working at:
A41 Bicester Road, Kingswood and A41 Gallows Bridge Junction: Tuesday 7th April – Friday 17th April
Night time surfacing works carried out utilising a road closure in operation between 19:00 and 06:00hrs
Desborough Avenue, High Wycombe: Tuesday 7th April – Monday 13th April
Night time surfacing works carried out utilising a road closure in operation between 19:00 and 06:00hrs
There will be no weekend working unless otherwise stated.
http://www.transportforbucks.net/Roadworks-Centre/Schemes-and-projects/Our-schemes-and-projects/Road-treatment-programme.aspx
• Budget of £45 million available over the next three years
• £25 million being used for 2015 / 2016, including £10 million that has been subject to market testing to better evaluate options for future programmes
• In excess of 200 roads will be treated in 2015 / 2016
• Roads chosen for treatment are a combination of those chosen by local Members, under guidance of TfB, and those shown by road condition survey data to require priority treatment.
• Depending on condition of road, the types of treatment used are:
o Surface dressing – Surface dressing is the most cost-effective way of extending the life of a road, as long as the surface has not already deteriorated too far. It is used to restore skid resistance and to seal cracks that may be in the used surface to stop water seeping into the road. Surface dressing also protects the road against the majority of damage caused by severe winter weather.
o Micro-surfacing – Micro surfacing is a fast, effective and economical way to preserve and protect the road and pavement surface and is generally used where surface dressing is not suitable but where a full depth road reconstruction is not required. The surface is ready for use just hours after application. It improves skid resistance without producing loose chippings and fills small cracks and imperfections in the road surface with a capability to smooth out bumps in the roads.
o Re-surfacing – When a road is so badly damaged for either micro surfacing or surface dressing to be effective we may need to replace the whole surface. Resurfacing involves digging out the worst affected areas or the road surface and laying new hot bituminous material.
Tuesday, 24 February 2015
Strengthening of bridge on Hughenden Avenue
Work to strengthen a bridge in Hughenden Avenue, High Wycombe, started on Monday (February 23). It will take four weeks.
The work, by Transport for Buckinghamshire, involves building a traffic island in the middle of the road. This, say engineers, will guide vehicles in their own lanes to spread weight evenly over the strongest parts of the bridge.
This island will also help to deter parking on pavements, but it is not intended as a pedestrian crossing point and will be installed with pedestrian deterrent paving as well as a single illuminated sign and two non-illuminated bollards.
During the construction works, a 24-hour two-way temporary traffic signal will be provided to maintain alternate flow with additional manual control during the peak hours to ease traffic flow.
Transport for Buckinghamshire would like to apologise for any inconvenience and delays that may be caused by this work, and would encourage any queries to be directed to the contact centre - 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416.
The work, by Transport for Buckinghamshire, involves building a traffic island in the middle of the road. This, say engineers, will guide vehicles in their own lanes to spread weight evenly over the strongest parts of the bridge.
This island will also help to deter parking on pavements, but it is not intended as a pedestrian crossing point and will be installed with pedestrian deterrent paving as well as a single illuminated sign and two non-illuminated bollards.
During the construction works, a 24-hour two-way temporary traffic signal will be provided to maintain alternate flow with additional manual control during the peak hours to ease traffic flow.
Transport for Buckinghamshire would like to apologise for any inconvenience and delays that may be caused by this work, and would encourage any queries to be directed to the contact centre - 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416.
Friday, 13 February 2015
Safety barriers to be installed at Woodham
Safety barriers will be installed by Transport for Buckinghamshire on the A41 at Woodham to protect bridge railings on the Bicester side of the roundabout serving the Calvert Energy from Waste plant. Work will start on Monday (February 16) and take four weeks.
Temporary lights will control traffic between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Mondays to Fridays, and engineers say they will make every effort to carry out the works with minimum disturbance.
In the event of any query about the works, please contact Buckinghamshire County Council’s Contact Centre (Tel: 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416)
Temporary lights will control traffic between 9.30am and 3.30pm on Mondays to Fridays, and engineers say they will make every effort to carry out the works with minimum disturbance.
In the event of any query about the works, please contact Buckinghamshire County Council’s Contact Centre (Tel: 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416)
Drug drive legislation: am I fit to drive?
A government campaign reminding people taking medicines to check with their doctor or pharmacist before getting behind the wheel, has been welcomed by Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Transport.
It promotes new drug drive legislation from March 2 in England and Wales, which targets drivers who risk other people’s lives by driving after taking drugs, but not those taking legitimate medicines that don’t impair their ability to drive.
Welcoming the impending legislation Ruth said today (Wednesday) "Anything I can promote to protect lives, I shall endorse in every way.'
The THINK! campaign launched yesterday (Tuesday February 10) by Department for Transport (DfT), heralds the legislation by encouraging people on medication who aren’t sure if they are safe to drive, to check with their pharmacist or doctor.
Motorists following the advice of a healthcare professional, and whose driving isn’t impaired, can continue to drive as usual and will not be at risk of arrest.
The new law sets limits for eight drugs commonly associated with illegal use, such as cannabis and cocaine. Eight prescription drugs are also included within the new law. These are:
- cloanzepam
- diazepam
- flunitrazepam
- lorazepam
- oxazepam
- temazepam
- methadone
- morphine
Limits set for these drugs exceed normal prescribed doses, so the vast majority of people can drive as normal, so long as they are taking their medicine in accordance with the advice of a healthcare professional and/or as printed in the accompanying leaflet, and their driving is not impaired.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly said: 'If you are unsure about the effects of your medication, or how this legislation may affect you, please seek the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
'If you’re driving and you’re on prescription medicine, it may be helpful for you to keep some evidence of this with you in case you’re stopped by the police.
'If you are taking your medicine as directed and your driving is not impaired, then you are not breaking the law and there is no need to worry.'
Further information, http://think.direct.gov.uk/drug-driving.html
It promotes new drug drive legislation from March 2 in England and Wales, which targets drivers who risk other people’s lives by driving after taking drugs, but not those taking legitimate medicines that don’t impair their ability to drive.
Welcoming the impending legislation Ruth said today (Wednesday) "Anything I can promote to protect lives, I shall endorse in every way.'
The THINK! campaign launched yesterday (Tuesday February 10) by Department for Transport (DfT), heralds the legislation by encouraging people on medication who aren’t sure if they are safe to drive, to check with their pharmacist or doctor.
Motorists following the advice of a healthcare professional, and whose driving isn’t impaired, can continue to drive as usual and will not be at risk of arrest.
The new law sets limits for eight drugs commonly associated with illegal use, such as cannabis and cocaine. Eight prescription drugs are also included within the new law. These are:
- cloanzepam
- diazepam
- flunitrazepam
- lorazepam
- oxazepam
- temazepam
- methadone
- morphine
Limits set for these drugs exceed normal prescribed doses, so the vast majority of people can drive as normal, so long as they are taking their medicine in accordance with the advice of a healthcare professional and/or as printed in the accompanying leaflet, and their driving is not impaired.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly said: 'If you are unsure about the effects of your medication, or how this legislation may affect you, please seek the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.
'If you’re driving and you’re on prescription medicine, it may be helpful for you to keep some evidence of this with you in case you’re stopped by the police.
'If you are taking your medicine as directed and your driving is not impaired, then you are not breaking the law and there is no need to worry.'
Further information, http://think.direct.gov.uk/drug-driving.html
Wednesday, 11 February 2015
Stoke Hammond Bypass Roadworks - 11th February
Works on the Stoke Hammond Bypass have been rescheduled for tonight, following postponement last week due to cold weather.
A collaborative approach has been taken to ensure the best use of the road closure, with the following work taking place:
• Stoke Hammond Bypass will be closed overnight tonight Wednesday 11th February and tomorrow night Thursday 12th February 2015, and possibly if required Friday 13th February. There will be a full road closure in place between the hours of 19:30hrs and 06:00hrs.
• Eurovia Surfacing will be on site with a surfacing gang, to carry out patching and pothole repairs.
• Jean Lefebvre are to attend the site tomorrow night to carry out a core survey and site inspection to ascertain the cause of these potholes.
• Link Line will also be on site to reinstate the road studs along the centre line. Any existing road markings affected by this work will also be reinstated during the closure.
• Collaborative working has been promoted and whilst the closure is in operation work will be carried out to clear gullies, clean signs, and also road sweeping and litter picking.
The diversion route whilst the work is taking place can be found here: Diversion route
A collaborative approach has been taken to ensure the best use of the road closure, with the following work taking place:
• Stoke Hammond Bypass will be closed overnight tonight Wednesday 11th February and tomorrow night Thursday 12th February 2015, and possibly if required Friday 13th February. There will be a full road closure in place between the hours of 19:30hrs and 06:00hrs.
• Eurovia Surfacing will be on site with a surfacing gang, to carry out patching and pothole repairs.
• Jean Lefebvre are to attend the site tomorrow night to carry out a core survey and site inspection to ascertain the cause of these potholes.
• Link Line will also be on site to reinstate the road studs along the centre line. Any existing road markings affected by this work will also be reinstated during the closure.
• Collaborative working has been promoted and whilst the closure is in operation work will be carried out to clear gullies, clean signs, and also road sweeping and litter picking.
The diversion route whilst the work is taking place can be found here: Diversion route
Wednesday, 14 January 2015
National Pothole Day
Potholes are a common problem, and residents and road users to make an extra effort to report road defects online so that they can be inspected and repaired.
Winter weather can wreak havoc with the roads, but TfB has worked hard to repair damage done by the floods last year as well as recently embarking on a patching programme. Potholes are, however, an unfortunate inevitability, as any small imperfection or crack in the surface of the road can develop into a larger defect due to the freezethaw cycle. Water gets into the structure of the road, then freezes, expanding and pushing up the tarmac, and then once thawed, gaps are created, which get bigger with every cycle, weakening the road. TfB repairs hundreds of potholes every week, and rely on routine inspections and reports from the public to identify areas that require attention.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, Cabinet Member for Transport said, “All road users are familiar with the sight of potholes, and we are no different to all counties in the country when it comes to road defects. We rely on reports from our road users to enable us to repair these issues, so I would urge you to help us out on National Pothole Day and report at least one!”
Potholes over 300mm wide and 40mm deep are classed as ‘category 1’ potholes and will be repaired first. If you spot one, you can report it in many different ways:
Online: www.buckscc.gov.uk/telltfb
Phone: 0845 2302882 / 01296 382416
Twitter: @tfbalerts using the #NationalPotholeDay
Winter weather can wreak havoc with the roads, but TfB has worked hard to repair damage done by the floods last year as well as recently embarking on a patching programme. Potholes are, however, an unfortunate inevitability, as any small imperfection or crack in the surface of the road can develop into a larger defect due to the freezethaw cycle. Water gets into the structure of the road, then freezes, expanding and pushing up the tarmac, and then once thawed, gaps are created, which get bigger with every cycle, weakening the road. TfB repairs hundreds of potholes every week, and rely on routine inspections and reports from the public to identify areas that require attention.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, Cabinet Member for Transport said, “All road users are familiar with the sight of potholes, and we are no different to all counties in the country when it comes to road defects. We rely on reports from our road users to enable us to repair these issues, so I would urge you to help us out on National Pothole Day and report at least one!”
Potholes over 300mm wide and 40mm deep are classed as ‘category 1’ potholes and will be repaired first. If you spot one, you can report it in many different ways:
Online: www.buckscc.gov.uk/telltfb
Phone: 0845 2302882 / 01296 382416
Twitter: @tfbalerts using the #NationalPotholeDay
Tuesday, 13 January 2015
I spy... a rogue sign on the road!
Transport for Buckinghamshire is undertaking a purge of unauthorised signs at the end of January and they need your help to spot them.
TfB has become increasingly aware of the number of rogue signs that have appeared around the county, including advertising and promotion posters, and business display signs. These items will have been attached to road signs, placed in verges or on street lights without the consent of the County Council, which is an offence under the Highways Act 1980.
Transport for Buckinghamshire is entitled to remove such posters and signs, which it is planning to do towards the end of January. Instead of issuing a fine, TfB will hold the signs at their depot and make them available to their owners for a fee of £50, which will help cover the cost of its removal. If unclaimed by the end of February, all remaining signs will be disposed of.
TfB would appreciate your help in identifying these nuisance signs which can distract drivers, cause obstructions in the road and even injury to the travelling public. If you spot any sign, poster or obstruction in the road or footway, please report online - www.buckscc.gov.uk/telltfb, through Twitter @tfbalerts, or simply call their contact centre - 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416 and let them know what you've spotted and the location of it.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, Cabinet Member for Transport said, "Unauthorised signs can cause many problems to our residents and road users, and are a nuisance to us. We are taking this opportunity to make a concerted effort to get rid of all signs that do not relate to the highway and have not been authorised by us, so please keep an eye out, and report anything you see that you think may need to be removed."
Any poster or sign on the highway needs to be authorised by TfB. Their policy on posters can be found here: www.transportforbucks.net/Roads-highways-and-pavements/Fly-Posting.aspx
TfB has become increasingly aware of the number of rogue signs that have appeared around the county, including advertising and promotion posters, and business display signs. These items will have been attached to road signs, placed in verges or on street lights without the consent of the County Council, which is an offence under the Highways Act 1980.
Transport for Buckinghamshire is entitled to remove such posters and signs, which it is planning to do towards the end of January. Instead of issuing a fine, TfB will hold the signs at their depot and make them available to their owners for a fee of £50, which will help cover the cost of its removal. If unclaimed by the end of February, all remaining signs will be disposed of.
TfB would appreciate your help in identifying these nuisance signs which can distract drivers, cause obstructions in the road and even injury to the travelling public. If you spot any sign, poster or obstruction in the road or footway, please report online - www.buckscc.gov.uk/telltfb, through Twitter @tfbalerts, or simply call their contact centre - 0845 230 2882 or 01296 382416 and let them know what you've spotted and the location of it.
Ruth Vigor-Hedderly, Cabinet Member for Transport said, "Unauthorised signs can cause many problems to our residents and road users, and are a nuisance to us. We are taking this opportunity to make a concerted effort to get rid of all signs that do not relate to the highway and have not been authorised by us, so please keep an eye out, and report anything you see that you think may need to be removed."
Any poster or sign on the highway needs to be authorised by TfB. Their policy on posters can be found here: www.transportforbucks.net/Roads-highways-and-pavements/Fly-Posting.aspx
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