Member

The noble Lord asked about transport functions and how the lines will be drawn between the strategic authority and local authorities. The strategic authority will take on local transport authority functions from day one, but for a time-limited period these will be held concurrently by the strategic authorities and their constituent councils. This is to prevent disruptions as functions transfer. However, councils will continue to be the highways authority for their areas, with responsibilities for maintaining, managing and improving local roads. Following the election of the mayor, some mayoral powers will become exercisable, such as the power of direction on the key route network. However, councils will continue to be the highways authority for their area. The constituent authorities being members of the strategic authority will help to make sure that there is consistency across the management of both highways and the road network.