Please provide the following environmental information relating to the yellow lines used:
1. The Council’s guidelines for the use of road markings in sensitive marine environments.
Devon County Council does not hold this information. The Council does not operate separate or bespoke guidelines specifically for the use of road markings in sensitive marine environments. Road markings are specified and installed in accordance with national standards, contract requirements and manufacturer guidance, with materials selected for durability and suitability for highway use.
2. The make/brand of the yellow lines used at Marine Parade, Shaldon.
The yellow lines installed at Marine Parade, Shaldon were MagmaLine R110 Preformed Thermoplastic.
3. The steps the Council takes to:
a. determine the chemical composition of materials used and their potential impact on the marine environment;
Devon County Council does not hold this information. The Council does not undertake bespoke chemical testing of highway marking materials, they are selected on the basis that they are suitable for highway use and compliant with relevant regulatory requirements.
b. inspect contractor installation to ensure the markings are not at risk of detaching;
Devon County Council does not hold this information. By way of assistance, we can confirm that installation is undertaken by approved term maintenance contractors whose operatives are required to be appropriately trained and competent in the application of highway materials, including thermoplastic road markings. Works are carried out in accordance with manufacturer instructions, contract requirements and specified application parameters.
In addition to supervision during works where appropriate, the Council operates a regime of randomised audit of completed repairs and installations undertaken by its term maintenance contractor. These audits assess workmanship, compliance with specification and overall quality. Where works are identified as not meeting the required standard or specification, remedial instructions are issued, which may include requiring the contractor to remove and reinstate the works at their own cost.
c. ensure compliance with duties under section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.
Devon County Council does not hold this information. By way of assistance, we can confirm that the Council discharges its statutory duties by maintaining the highway in accordance with adopted policies, national guidance and legislative requirements. Environmental considerations form part of the specification, procurement and maintenance process, including the selection of materials appropriate for their intended purpose and environment. Where concerns are raised, these are investigated and, where necessary, specialist technical advice is sought to inform appropriate action.
In relation to this site, the installation has been discussed with operational teams, who are satisfied that it was carried out in accordance with manufacturer instructions. However, given the coastal location, it is acknowledged that exposure to sea spray, salt and prevailing weather conditions may be a contributory factor to the performance observed.