In 2014, the Department for Transport (DfT) undertook a review of the resilience of the UK transport network to extreme weather events. This followed a period of extreme weather in 2013/14, which saw high winds and heavy rainfall. The DfT recommended “that Local Highway Authorities identify a 'resilient network' to which they will give priority, in order to maintain economic activity and access to key services during extreme weather”.
Our Suffolk's Resilient Network document (PDF, 398 KB) sets out our response to this recommendation and aligns with our wider strategies, including the:
The identification of the resilient network will enable appropriate investment and maintenance to be planned and prioritised. This will ensure that these strategic routes are usable, as far as is reasonably practical, by the public, local business and critical emergency services during severe weather. In addition, during times of extreme weather, Suffolk Highways first response will be to direct resources to this network ensuring it is clear from fallen trees, tackling flooding events and clearing snow.
The development of a resilient network directly supports our priorities to:
- support those most vulnerable in our communities (supporting access to key services); and
- develop Suffolk’s infrastructure and maintain roads (keeping critical routes open during extreme weather).