Navigating the intricacies of Section 278 agreements and the associated design work and technical approval can be a complex and time-consuming process.
Street Space Designs specialises in providing expert Section 278 consultancy and engineering design services, ensuring your project progresses smoothly and efficiently, ultimately obtaining technical approval with the relevant highway authority.
Our team of experienced design consultants, and engineers are here to guide you through every step.
Street Space Designs Services:
Street Space Designs offers a comprehensive suite of Section 278 consultancy and engineering design services, including:
Feasibility Studies: Our consultants and engineers assess the viability of your proposed Section 278 highway works and identify potential challenges and solutions
Design Development: Our team of designers and engineers create detailed designs for your highway, drainage and street lighting improvements, adhering to all relevant regulations and standards
Consultation and Negotiation: Our consultants liaise with the local highway authority on your behalf, negotiating the terms of the Section 278 agreement, and obtaining necessary approvals
Technical Submissions: Our engineers and consultants prepare and submit all required technical documentation, including drawings, specifications, and necessary reports
Construction Support: Our engineers provide ongoing support during the construction phase to ensure the works are carried out in accordance with the approved designs
Project Management: Our consultants manage the entire Section 278 process, from initial concept to final completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget
Section 278 Agreement FAQs and Answers
Navigating the complexities of Section 278 agreements can be daunting, time consuming and expensive. Our FAQ section aims to answer some of the most common questions, providing clarity and guidance on the process.
A Section 278 agreement, under the Highways Act 1980, is a legal agreement between a developer and the local highway authority. It’s specifically for situations where a development project requires changes to a public highway
Read more about what is a Section 278 Agreement
If your development requires any alterations to the existing public highway, you'll likely need a Section 278 agreement. This ensures that the works are carried out to the required standards, maintain road safety, and are correctly integrated with the existing highway network.
278 agreements can cover a wide range of works, including:
New access points/junctions: Creating crossovers, bellmouths, roundabouts, or other access junction points to connect your development to the public road
Highway improvements: Upgrading existing roads, footpaths, cycle lanes, or verges
Traffic calming measures: Implementing speed limits, traffic islands, or other measures to manage traffic flow
Street lighting and drainage: Installing or upgrading street lighting, drainage systems, or other highway infrastructure
Utility installations: Laying pipes, ducting or cables under the highway
Following planning approval for your development, the process typically involves the following steps:
Initial Consultation: Contact the local highway authority to discuss your proposed development and the required highway works
Design Development: Engage a qualified engineer or consultant to support the application and agreement process, and prepare detailed designs for the highway improvements
Technical Submissions: Submit the design drawings, specifications, and other required documents including Road Safety Audits to the highway authority for review and approval
Negotiation: Negotiate the terms of the Section 278 agreement with the highway authority
Agreement Execution: Once agreed, both the developer and the highway authority sign the Section 278 agreement
Construction: Carry out the highway works in accordance with the approved designs and under the supervision of the highway authority
Completion and Handover: Upon completion, the highway authority will inspect the works and, if satisfactory, take over responsibility for their maintenance.
The timeframe can vary significantly depending on the complexity of the works and the workload of the local highway authority. It's essential to factor in sufficient time for the process, which can sometimes take several months, even for a simple scheme.
The costs associated with a Section 278 agreement can include:
Design fees: Fees for the engineers or consultants who prepare the designs
Legal fees: Costs associated with negotiating and finalising the agreement
Highway authority fees: Fees charged by the highway authority for reviewing the designs and administering the agreement
Construction costs: The cost of carrying out the highway works
Bond/Security: The Highway Authority may require a bond or security to ensure the works are completed to their satisfaction
Once the works are completed and handed over to the highway authority, they become responsible for the future maintenance of the highway assets
No. It is illegal to carry out works on the public highway without a valid Section 278 agreement.
The local highway authority where the development is situated is the best source of information regarding Section 278 agreements. You can also consult with a qualified engineer or consultant specialising in highway design and Section 278 agreements.
A Section 38 agreement is used when a developer is building a new road that will eventually be adopted by the highway authority. A Section 278 is for altering an existing highway. They are distinct agreements, though sometimes a development might involve both.
While not strictly required, engaging a qualified engineer or consultant, such as Street Space Designs, is highly recommended. We have the expertise to navigate the complex design requirements, technical submissions, and negotiation process, saving you time and potential headaches.
