Kingston Council has adopted a new strategic framework for road maintenance, aiming to shift from reactive repairs to a proactive asset-preservation model. The Highway Infrastructure Asset Management Plan (HIAMP), approved by the Place Committee on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, is the first comprehensive update in ten years and is designed to guide the council's approach to road upkeep and investment.
The new plan is expected to lead to cost savings, minimise vehicle damage claims, reduce traffic disruption, and lower environmental impact, while also supporting the council's climate action targets and active travel ambitions. It is also a requirement for securing maximum Department for Transport (DfT) funding.
The HIAMP represents a significant shift from the previous 'reactive repairs' approach. In practical terms for road users, this means reduced disruption through early preventative treatments, improved road conditions for longer, and more efficient use of resources. The proactive model also aims to lower environmental impact.
The success of the new model will be measured through several Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), including targets for the condition of roads, footways, and lighting columns, as well as the number of gullies cleaned and the percentage of assets with complete inventory records. For instance, the target for principal (A) roads in 'poor' condition is ≤ 10%, and for footways, it is also ≤ 10%. The plan also aims to reduce the number of footway reactive defects per kilometre to ≤ 5 and achieve a 0% target for crossings with accessibility issues. Furthermore, a key environmental target is an annual carbon reduction of ≥ 20%.
While specific monetary figures for anticipated cost savings are not explicitly stated, the plan highlights the cost-effectiveness of proactive treatments, suggesting that spending £1 on early surface treatments can 'avoid spending £10 to £15 on deep structural reconstruction later'. The HIAMP aims to reduce the long-term revenue cost of maintaining the highway network.
The HIAMP is also designed to support the council's 'active travel ambitions' by ensuring that roads, pavements, and cycle lanes are maintained in a safe, serviceable, and highly accessible condition. This directly supports public safety and promotes walking, wheeling, and cycling. Specifically, the plan aims to expand and maintain physical active travel infrastructure, facilitate the transition to zero-emission driving by installing public EV charging points, improve local air quality by minimizing congestion, and promote physical and mental well-being by keeping active transport routes in excellent condition.
The plan is a requirement for securing maximum Department for Transport (DfT) funding. Further details can be found in the Public reports pack for the Place Committee meeting.