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Technical approval of highway structures

Purpose of policy

East Sussex County Council (ESCC) recognises the vital role played by the local highway network. The purpose of this policy is to ensure that structures are designed to be fit for purpose and safe for use.

In carrying out this policy ESCC will meet its statutory obligations and will also support the Council’s Priorities, Local Transport Plan and Highway Service Outcomes.


Policy statement

  1. All structural design and assessment will be subject to a formal Technical Approval procedure.
  2. In the event of structural failure, the County Council will consider liability in the event of a claim in accordance with the Highway Claims Policy.

Supporting information

  • The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges, Technical Approval for Highway Structures BD 2/12
  • Well-managed Highway Infrastructure - A Code of Practice, UK Roads Liaison Group, 2016

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Date of last review

2 January 2020