Understanding Section 278 Agreement: Everything You Need to Know

The Ultimate Guide to Section 278 Agreement

Section 278 essential part planning any construction infrastructure project. Agreements help ensure necessary highway carried part development, benefits developer local community.

What is a Section 278 Agreement?

A Section 278 Agreement, also known as a `Highways Act Agreement`, is a legal agreement between a developer and the local highway authority. It allows the developer to carry out improvements or alterations to the public highway as part of a planning permission for a development.

Key Aspects of Section 278 Agreement

Here important aspects Section 278 Agreement:

Aspect Description
Scope The outlines scope works carried out, details design construction standards.
Costs The responsible costs associated works, design, construction, maintenance.
Liability The developer assumes liability for the works and must indemnify the highway authority against any claims arising from them.
Completion The specify timeframe completion works process final certification highway authority.

Benefits of Section 278 Agreement

Section 278 agreements offer several benefits to both developers and local communities:

Benefit Description
Improved infrastructure The agreement ensures that necessary highway improvements are made, benefiting both the development and the surrounding area.
Legal certainty By responsibilities developer highway authority, provides legal certainty parties involved.
Community impact The improvements to the public highway can have a positive impact on the local community by enhancing safety and accessibility.

Case Study: Successful Implementation of Section 278 Agreement

One notable case study is the development of a new residential complex in a suburban area. The developer entered into a Section 278 Agreement with the local highway authority to carry out necessary road widening and traffic calming measures. As a result, the development was able to proceed smoothly, and the surrounding area benefited from improved road infrastructure.

Section 278 agreements play a crucial role in facilitating the delivery of development projects while ensuring the enhancement of public highway infrastructure. Local authorities work collaboratively negotiate finalize agreements best interest stakeholders.


Section 278 Agreement Contract

This Section 278 Agreement Contract (the “Contract”) is entered into as of [Date], by and between [Party Name] (“Developer”) and [Party Name] (“Local Authority”).

1. Definitions
In this Contract, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them:
2. Purpose
The purpose Contract lay terms conditions Developer carry works benefit Local Authority, pursuant Section 278 Highways Act 1980.
3. Works
The Developer shall carry out the following works:
4. Payment
The Local Authority shall make payment to the Developer in accordance with the terms of this Contract.
5. Indemnity
The Developer shall indemnify and hold harmless the Local Authority from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, and expenses arising out of or in connection with the performance of the works.
6. Governing Law
This Contract shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [State/Country].
7. Dispute Resolution
Any dispute arising connection Contract resolved arbitration accordance rules [Arbitration Association/Institution].
8. Entire Agreement
This Contract constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements and understandings, whether oral or written.

Questions Answers
1. What is a Section 278 Agreement? A Section 278 Agreement is a legal document under the Highways Act 1980 that allows a developer to enter into an agreement with the highway authority to carry out works to the public highway.
2. When is a Section 278 Agreement required? A Section 278 Agreement is required when a developer proposes to carry out works that will have an impact on the public highway, such as building a new access road or installing new traffic signals.
3. What are the key elements of a Section 278 Agreement? The key elements of a Section 278 Agreement include the scope of works, the design standards to be followed, the method of construction, and the maintenance responsibilities after the works are completed.
4. Who is responsible for the costs associated with a Section 278 Agreement? The developer is responsible for the costs associated with a Section 278 Agreement, including the design, construction, and maintenance of the works. However, the highway authority may contribute to the costs if the works provide a public benefit.
5. What is the process for entering into a Section 278 Agreement? The process for entering into a Section 278 Agreement involves submitting a detailed proposal to the highway authority, negotiating the terms of the agreement, and obtaining formal approval before commencing the works.
6. Can a Section 278 Agreement be modified after it is signed? Yes, a Section 278 Agreement can be modified after it is signed if both parties agree to the changes and any necessary legal formalities are followed. However, substantial changes may require a new agreement.
7. What are the consequences of failing to comply with a Section 278 Agreement? Failing to comply with a Section 278 Agreement can result in legal action by the highway authority, including the enforcement of the agreement through the courts and the recovery of costs incurred to rectify any non-compliance.
8. Is it possible to appeal a decision made by the highway authority regarding a Section 278 Agreement? Yes, it is possible to appeal a decision made by the highway authority regarding a Section 278 Agreement. The appeal process involves submitting a formal complaint and presenting evidence to support the appeal.
9. How long does a Section 278 Agreement remain in effect? A Section 278 Agreement remains in effect for the duration specified in the agreement, which typically corresponds to the period of maintenance responsibility for the works, and may be extended if necessary.
10. Are there any alternatives to a Section 278 Agreement for carrying out works to the public highway? Yes, there are alternatives to a Section 278 Agreement, such as a Section 38 Agreement for adopting new highways, or a private agreement for works that do not impact the public highway.
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