Prioritising improvement works
Using road condition data and lifecycle modelling, we can prioritise our improvement works to get the maximum return on investment from our limited financial resources.
The modelling demonstrates that the decline of roads or assets in amber condition (those in the middle category) will happen at a greater rate than red roads (worst condition) can be repaired.
It is also more cost effective to treat larger areas of the network in amber condition with less expensive treatments than it is to repair smaller red areas in the worst condition that require more expensive interventions.
If we can prevent more of the network from falling into red condition through cheaper intervention work, our investment will offer better value for money, maintaining the overall condition of the network.
The diagram below demonstrates the benefit of focusing maintenance on amber roads rather than our red roads due to the cost difference in treatments.
The diagram shows that an asset deteriorates from first construction throughout its life. Early intervention costs less to return to “as new” condition (green roads), than waiting for an asset to fail and carry out costly structural repairs.
Diagram illustrating the benefit of focusing maintenance on amber roads
As well as using road condition survey data and lifecycle modelling, road hierarchy and other local factors will be assessed in line with our strategy. We assign weightings within our pavement management system to areas that are more critical to our local communities.
You can find out more about the Highways Asset Management Strategy 2018-2024 on the East Sussex County Council website.