The national framework for managing transport infrastructure assets is linked to the Local Transport Plan (LTP) process whereby each highway authority is required to produce a transport plan and report on its delivery. LTPs are assessed by the Government Offices and encourage the delivery of transport services that enhance the quality of life and provide opportunities for all within communities. The LTP framework encourages authorities to develop a Transport Asset Management Plan to guide investment on maintenance and management of the transport infrastructure. In May 2009, 14 local authorities were awarded government funding for transport asset management to assist in them in developing their arrangements.

Local authority transport infrastructure assets (CIPFA, June 2008)
This report reviews the accounting, management and finance mechanisms for local authority transport infrastructure. It promotes the need for full inventory, robust condition surveys and sound valuation processes so that through proper asset management local authorities understand the capital and revenue value of the assets under their stewardship and allocate appropriate resources for their maintenance, in order to achieve efficiencies in delivering the transport service.

CIPFA promotes £23 million government highways management scheme
The Department of Transport has asked CIPFA to help spread the news of their £23 million pound scheme to assist local authorities in developing their highways asset management capabilities. The scheme, announced on 16 July by Transport Minister of State, Rosie Winterton, will be publicised through CIPFA Property’s Highway Asset Management Planning Network, known as HAMP. HAMP is a forum in which the members, currently numbering over 95 local authorities from all over England, exchange best practice and work to develop the most efficient and effective solutions to highways asset management problems. For details, contact: hamp@cipfa.org.uk.

Other key guidance documents on the management of transport infrastructure assets can be found at RoadsCodes website.

A Review of Transport Asset Management Plans (PDF file, 62 pages, 1.9 MB)
This 2008 report by Atkins for the Department for Transport found that progress has been hesitant and inconsistent. Some authorities are producing good quality Transport Asset management Plans (TAMPs) reflecting effective practices and realistic targets, and others not commencing the process, or being unambitious in their intended TAMP development. The review reported that some TAMPs have weak links to the wider strategic objectives of the authority, potentially weak targets and poor demonstration of how an asset management approach can improve value for money in the use of resources.

Framework for Highway Asset Management (PDF file, 102 pages, 3.3 MB)
This framework published by the County Surveyors Society in 2004 provides guidance on the first steps of developing highway Asset Management Plans.

CIPFA online: transport (TISonline)
This website identifies key areas in local authority transport provision such as LTPs and the wider strategic frameworks, and offers guidance on implementing central government policy (registration required).