Question to the Department for Transport:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Commissioners appointed to oversee the responsibilities of Birmingham City Council are intending to accept the negotiated new contract for the maintenance of road services, in time to ensure a handover at the expiration of the current contract on 31 January 2024; and if they do not plan to do so, what steps are the taking to ensure alternative arrangements are made for road maintenance in the city.

The Government is currently considering the Business Case for a revised contract for Birmingham Highways Maintenance following the failure of Birmingham's original PFI deal. A decision is expected in due course.

Highways maintenance is a critical and statutory function for all Local Authorities and the government will continue to support authorities to fulfil this function.

Commissioners have oversight of strategic financial decision-making at the Council and they will want to be satisfied that the contract achieves value for money for Birmingham residents. They are providing advice and challenge to the council, and are able to make decisions directly, if necessary.