Section 106 agreements are an essential part of the planning process for highway developments. These agreements are made between local authorities and developers to ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to accommodate the new development before construction begins. This includes improvements to highways, footpaths, cycleways, and public transport.

What is a Section 106 Agreement?

A Section 106 agreement, also known as a planning obligation, is a legally binding agreement between a local planning authority and a developer. The agreement is used to mitigate the impact of a development on the surrounding community. The agreement sets out what the developer must do to address the impact of the development and what the local authority must do in return.

What is a Section 106 Agreement for Highways?

A Section 106 agreement for highways is a type of planning obligation that relates specifically to highway infrastructure. The agreement will typically cover the following:

– Improvements to existing highways and roads

– The construction of new highways and roads

– Provision of footpaths and cycleways

– Public transport improvements

– Traffic management measures

Why are Section 106 Agreements for Highways Important?

Section 106 agreements for highways are important because they ensure that developments do not have a detrimental impact on the existing road network. Developers are required to make contributions towards the costs of improving the highways infrastructure to ensure that it can accommodate the additional traffic generated by the development.

This means that local communities benefit from improved road networks, cycleways, and footpaths, as well as better public transport links.

Examples of Section 106 Agreements for Highways

One example of a Section 106 agreement for highways is the M11 Junction 7A Development agreement. This agreement was made between Epping Forest District Council, Harlow Council, and the developers of the M11 Junction 7A development. The agreement sets out the requirement for the construction of a new interchange, improvements to existing roads and footpaths, and the provision of new cycleways.

Another example is the London Plan, which requires developers to make contributions towards the cost of upgrading or building new transport infrastructure to support their developments. This includes improvements to Tube stations and the construction of new bus routes.

In conclusion, Section 106 agreements for highways are an essential part of the planning process for highway developments. They ensure that the necessary infrastructure is in place to accommodate the new development before construction begins. This benefits local communities through improved road networks, cycleways, and footpaths, as well as better public transport links.