The Surrey County Council Section 278 Agreement: What You Need to Know
Developing a new property or undertaking a major construction project in Surrey requires the involvement of the local council. One critical aspect of such projects is the Section 278 Agreement, also known as the Highways Act Agreement, which ensures that any modifications or alterations made to the public highways for a specific development project are safe and beneficial for all parties involved.
So, what exactly is a Section 278 Agreement, and how does it affect construction projects in Surrey?
What is the Section 278 Agreement?
The Section 278 Agreement is a legal contract that is signed between a developer and the local council, in this case, the Surrey County Council. Its primary aim is to ensure that any work carried out by the developer, such as the construction of a new road or a modification to an existing one, complies with the standards set by the council. This ensures that the resulting changes do not adversely affect the public highway, nearby properties, or the environment.
This agreement is put in place to protect both the developer and the public. It outlines the responsibilities of the developer when undertaking the work and addresses any potential risks to traffic flow, pedestrian safety, and access to the area during construction.
Why is the Section 278 Agreement Important?
The Section 278 Agreement is necessary because it ensures that construction projects do not cause unnecessary disruption to local communities and that any modifications made to the public highways are safe for public use.
The agreement also ensures that the developer is financially responsible for any damages or additional work that may be required due to the modifications made under the agreement. This protects both the Surrey County Council and the local community from any potential complications that may arise from the construction project.
What is Included in the Section 278 Agreement?
The Section 278 Agreement typically includes several clauses, which outline the responsibilities of both parties involved in the construction project. These may include:
1. The scope of the works to be carried out
2. The detailed design plans
3. The construction program
4. The cost of the works
5. The financial security arrangements
6. The measures to protect the public during the construction
7. The testing and certification requirements
8. The responsibility for maintenance and repairs
9. The completion and handover of the works
How does the Section 278 Agreement Process Work?
The Section 278 Agreement begins with the developer submitting an application to the Surrey County Council for approval. The council will then review the proposal and provide feedback on any alterations or modifications required to ensure that the project complies with local regulations.
Once the proposal has been approved, the developer must submit the detailed design plans and the construction program to the council for review. If the council approves these plans, the developer must obtain financial security arrangements and carry out the works in compliance with the agreement.
Finally, the developer must complete the works and provide the council with any necessary certification, including test results and confirmation of compliance with the agreement. Once the council is satisfied with the work, the developer can hand over the works and complete the agreement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Surrey County Council Section 278 Agreement is a crucial legal contract that governs the development of new properties and construction projects in the county. By ensuring that all modifications made to the public highways are safe and compliant with local regulations, the agreement protects both the developers and the local community from any potential risks or issues that may arise during or after the construction project.
If you are contemplating undertaking a construction project in Surrey, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the Section 278 Agreement and ensure that you comply with all its requirements. By doing so, you can ensure a smooth construction process that benefits both you and the local community.