Highways Agency

Chief Executive's foreword

I am delighted to present the achievements and performance of the Highways Agency in 2001-02. As the first year of the Government's ten year investment strategy for transport, this was an important year for the Agency. We have a major contribution to make towards the targets set out in that plan. In 2001-02 we made good progress on delivering our contribution to these targets.

As demand for our network grows, it will become increasingly important for us to manage traffic to tackle congestion. In 2001-02 we exceeded targets set for achieving measures designed to assist in reducing congestion, ranging from the number of lanes kept free of road works to the delivery of Early Action Schemes. Equally important are the advances we have made in extending our traffic management capabilities. Actions in 2001-02 include: delivering more electronic Variable Message Signs; automatic hold up warning systems; website and public information improvements; and the first stages of a new national Traffic Control Centre, due to begin operating in 2004. These initiatives will give us more influence on the driver behaviours that create congestion and enable us to offer road users more predictable journeys.

We contract out most of our services. The quality of our own procurement methods and the standards of service we secure from our suppliers are, therefore, of vital importance. Our procurement strategy, which has already won industry awards is built on working in partnership with our supply chain to secure best value.

None of the achievements recorded in this report would have been possible without the continued professionalism and enthusiasm for good service that are the hallmarks of our staff. I would like to express my appreciation for their contribution to our success.

We are building on our success in 2001-02 as we continue to implement the 10-Year Plan, providing a better service for our customers.

Tim Matthews
Chief Executive