Transport Scotland - Annual Business Plan 2014-15

1

Continue and monitor construction of the Forth Replacement Crossing as programmed.

1.1

Continue to engage with Local Authorities, the Regional Transport Partnership, Bus Operators and the Confederation of Passenger Transport to bring forward elements of the Public Transport Strategy and refresh as appropriate

MTRIPS

1.2

Ensure all the requirements of the Forth Crossing Act and Code of Construction Practice are met during the construction work during 2014/2015

MTRIPS

1.3

Principal Contract - Monitor the Principal Contract for Construction of the Main Structure and connecting road network (from M90 Admiralty to A90/M9 Spur Scotstoun Junction) including Intelligent Transport System (ITS)

MTRIPS / TRBO

1.4

Procurement of a single operator by 2015 to manage and maintain the FRC (Queensferry Crossing) and Forth Road Bridge (FRB)

TRBO

2

Work with colleagues in Scottish Government and with Planning Authorities to deliver our Development Planning responsibilities

2.1

Deliver the actions in Transport Scotland's Planning Performance Framework

MTRIPS

2.2

Proactively engage with Planning Authorities through the Development Planning Process

MTRIPS

2.3

Deliver the outcomes identified in the published Transport Scotland Service Improvement Plan in accordance with the wider Scottish Government Planning Reform Agenda

TRBO

3

Develop a future transport infrastructure programme in line with recommendations of the Strategic Transport Projects Review

3.1

Develop a long-term plan for development of Scotland's Railways

Rail

3.2

Ensure Network Rail's delivery of the regulatory determination for Control Period 5 reflects the output requirements of the Scottish Ministers' High Level Output Specification (HLOS)

Rail

3.3

Initiate planning process for 2018 Periodic Review, reviewing approach taken to PR13 and developing long-term outputs and investment priorities.

Rail

3.4

Design of the A82 Tarbet to Inverarnan scheme

MTRIPS

3.5

Bring forward trunk road corridor studies and engage with partners to develop recommendations in STPR - through stakeholder engagement on individual interventions and discussions on development planning issues.

MTRIPS

4

Work alongside the City of Edinburgh Council to deliver the Edinburgh Trams project

4.1

Work with Network Rail and/or ScotRail Franchisee to progress the delivery of a new station in the Gogar area of Edinburgh .

Rail

4.2

Work with City of Edinburgh Council and Contractor to deliver the Edinburgh tram project with a target of commencement of Passenger Services in May 2014

MTRIPS

5

Continue to progress the Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route (AWPR) and the A90 Balmedie to Tipperty projects and design work to improve Haudagain roundabout

5.1

Continue preparation on improvements at the A90/A96 Haudagain Roundabout for delivery once AWPR opened Spring 2018

MTRIPS

5.2

Complete the enabling works and procurement of Aberdeen Western Peripheral Route / Balmedie to Tipperty NPD Contract.

MTRIPS

5.3

Undertake stakeholder engagement programme to ensure that local communities, businesses and other interested parties are kept informed of progress of the projects

MTRIPS

6

Complete construction of the Borders Railway

6.1

Work with Network Rail and Project Partners to deliver Borders Railway on time and to target price.

Rail

7

Drive forward objectives for cross-border High Speed Rail

7.1

Drive forward Ministers ambitions for High Speed Rail

Rail

8

Enhance rail and road connections in the Highlands including key connections to Inverness and planning for the dualling of the A9 between Perth and Inverness by 2025, and the A96 by 2030.

8.1

Confirm phase 2 improvements of Highland Main Line project for implementation 2014-2019

Rail

8.2

Progress design of Inverness to Nairn and Nairn Bypass options with preferred routes in Winter 2014

MTRIPS

8.3

Continued engagement with key stakeholders on A96 dualling strategy through a comprehensive, integrated communications strategy

MTRIPS

8.4

Progress statutory processes for Kincraig to Dalraddy and Luncarty to Pass of Birnam to meet programme for delivery on site from 2015/16 and 2017, respectively.

MTRIPS

8.5

Progress scheme design for remainder of A9 dualling.

MTRIPS

9

Continue to develop and improve railway stations

9.1

Promote Scottish Stations fund and develop programme of works.

Rail

9.2

Provide additional and improved passenger facilities at First ScotRail stations, including interchange facilities with other public transport and improved station facilities.

Rail

9.3

Scope of projects to enhance public transport to the Commonwealth games agreed, monitor implementation.

Rail

10

Contribute to the development of the modernisation programme for the Glasgow Subway

10.1

Represent TS interests on SPT's Subway Modernisation Steering Group

Transport Policy

11

Work with aviation and maritime sectors to maximise connections and contribution to the Scottish economy

11.1

Work with ferry operators to support and strengthen ferry links between Scotland and Northern Ireland and between Scotland and continental Europe.

AMFC

11.2

Work with the ports industry to maximise and promote the contribution that ports make to the local, national and regional economies in which they operate.

AMFC

11.3

Support air services in the Highlands and Islands though sponsorship of HIAL and support for Public Service Obligations routes

AMFC

11.4

Work with HIAL to procure new aircraft for PSO routes

AMFC

11.5

Implement measures to secure a return on investment in Prestwick Airport

AMFC

11.6

Continue to work with airport and airlines to encourage and secure direct routes to Scotland

AMFC

12

Progress the M8 Baillieston to Newhouse, M8 Associated Networks Improvements and M74 Raith Interchange

12.1

Deliver construction phase of project on time and to budget.

MTRIPS

12.2

Work together with the contractor to ensure that local communities, businesses and other interested parties are kept informed of progress of the project

MTRIPS

13

Continue to deliver ferry services to the Northern Isles and Clyde and Hebrides including roll out of RET in line with published plans

13.1

Continue with roll-out of RET, including updating of RET formula, working with the operator on consideration of demand management, and provision of continued policy advice to Ministers. Roll out of RET to Arran by October 2014.

AMFC

13.2

Take forward the study to develop ferry policy on freight fares

AMFC

13.3

Roll out, and further develop, the medium and long term proposals in the final Ferries Plan proposals

AMFC

13.4

Engage with local authorities and reach a resolution on position with local authority owned ferry services, vessels, piers and harbours that might transfer to Transport Scotland.

AMFC

13.5

Develop and implement policy on the future direction of ferry services on the Gourock-Dunoon route

AMFC

13.6

Initiate and take forward the procurement of the Clyde and Hebrides ferry service with a view to having the new service in place by October 2016

AMFC

13.7

Completion and delivery of the new £42m vessel (MV Loch Seaforth) for the Ullapool-Stornoway service and entry into service

AMFC

13.8

Continue to work with Stornoway Port Authority and Ullapool Harbour Trust on the design and construction works at ports to ensure compatibility with the MV Loch Seaforth

AMFC

13.9

Complete construction, and entry into service of the second hybrid vessel May 2014; evaluation of the first 2 hybrid ferries - March 2015

AMFC

13.10

Working with CMAL and CalMac develop and initiate the implementation of an agreed vessel replacement programme for ferry services subsidised by Scottish Ministers with accompanying project governance/management structure

AMFC

13.11

Design development and secure statutory permissions in relation to the substantial development of Brodick Pier

AMFC

13.12

Effective contract and financial management of the Northern Isles, Clyde and Hebrides and Gourock-Dunoon ferry services contracts to deliver safe, reliable, resilient and cost effective ferry services

AMFC

13.13

Working with the ferry operators and vessel owners, ensure effective engagement on ferry service issues with key stakeholders and local communities to maintain and improve ferry services

AMFC

14

Work with ports industry and stakeholders to maximise opportunities arising from manufacturing, deployment and operations and maintenance of offshore renewable devices.

14.1

Work with the ports industry and other stakeholders to streamline the consenting processes for major projects (including those related to offshore renewable energy)

AMFC

15

Take forward the progress with the A737 Dalry bypass project and develop the design for Maybole bypass.

15.1

Complete statutory authorisation for A737 Dalry Bypass

MTRIPS

15.2

Complete statutory authorisation for A77 Maybole Bypass

MTRIPS

16

Take forward the procurement and construction of the A75 Dunragit Bypass scheme

16.1

Complete the construction phase of the Dunragit Bypass

MTRIPS

16.2

Work together with contractor to ensure that local communities, businesses and other interested parties are kept informed of progress of the project

MTRIPS

Better journey times, better reliability, quality and accessibility

17

Continue to maintain operate an improve the trunk road network to a high standard, to maximise value for money, to provide a high quality service to the travelling public keeping disruption to a minimum

17.1

Work and assist developers to implement required changes to the trunk road network increasing the potential for economic growth and jobs

TRBO

17.2

Work with key sectors to ensure that the strategic road network supports growth in the tourism, food and drink, whisky and other key industries

TRBO

17.3

Continue to represent Transport Scotland on national and international committees to protect the Ministers interests and share experience

TRBO

17.4

Continue to identify safety priorities for bridges by use of risk assessment methodologies for parapets, bridge supports, hidden defects and scour

TRBO

17.5

Complete various major maintenance works on major strategic bridges in 2014 - 15 at the A9 Kessock Bridge, A898 Erskine Bridge

TRBO

17.6

Manage and monitor budgets, grants, work programmes and contracts for the existing Forth Road Bridge (FETA) and Tay Road Bridge

TRBO

17.7

Manage the performance of Contractors and Concessionaires to ensure contractual obligations are met and stakeholder interests are protected

TRBO

17.8

Implement changes to trunk road maintenance practices in line with Asset Management Policy

TRBO

17.9

Ensure that trunk road entries in the Scottish Roadworks Register are carried out to a high standard and work with the Scottish Roadworks Commissioner to improve the quality of roadwork's and to minimise disruption

TRBO

17.10

Review Geographic data that Transport Scotland is responsible for and publish those datasets (using Web Services) as required by legislation

TRBO

18

Procure and deliver contracts to manage and maintain the trunk road network in the west (2012) and East (2014) of Scotland

18.1

Procure the next round of Trunk Road Term Maintenance Contracts for North East and South East Scotland

TRBO

18.2

Ensure all staff are trained to efficiently manage the new 4G contracts

TRBO

18.3

Procure the next Performance Audit group Contract

TRBO

19

Continue to progress improvements to the A82 including Crianlarich bypass and Pulpit Rock, and the design work to upgrade the A82 Loch Lomond.

19.1

Complete the construction phase of the A82 Pulpit Rock project.

MTRIPS

19.2

Complete the construction phase of the A82 Crainlarich Bypass project.

MTRIPS

19.3

Continue to update stakeholders on construction progress for A82 Pulpit Rock and A82 Crainlarich Bypass projects.

MTRIPS

19.4

Continue to progress the development of A82 upgrade at Loch Lomond

MTRIPS

20

Work with rail industry to undertake reviews of timetables to reduce journey times and improve train service frequencies

20.1

Seek more frequent, better timed cross-border services

Rail

20.2

Monitor industry process to achieve optimal position for rail services and journey time.

Rail

20.3

Engage with the industry and Regulator to drive up performance, and provide advice and guidance to Ministers on the performance of Scottish rail networks.

Rail

20.4

Work with road colleagues and external partners to share information on planned road and rail closures.

Rail

21

Work with Network Rail to deliver the Edinburgh-Glasgow Improvements Programme

21.1

Work with Network Rail and the ORR to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of the EGIP electrification in accordance with the agreed delivery milestones of December 2016.

Rail

21.2

Develop a high level delivery plan for redevelopment of Glasgow Queen Street Station, conclude the commercial deal with Network Rail for its delivery and progress design development of the station.

Rail

22

Extend and enhance the systems underpinning Traffic Scotland and Traveline Scotland to improve the delivery of travel information and trunk road traffic control.

22.1

Develop and enhance the provision of impartial traveller information across all modes and routes

TRBO

23

Work with transport operators, Regional transport partnerships and local authorities to deliver Smart ticketing across Scotland

23.1

Work with ScotRail and TS Concessionary Travel & Integrated Ticketing Unit to expand rail smart ticketing to more routes in Scotland.

Rail

23.2

Develop policy framework for fares and smart ticketing post-2015

Rail

23.3

Through a programme of pilot projects with willing partners, make progress on the delivery of smart ticketing products throughout Scotland

TRBO

Low carbon technology & infrastructure, reduced emissions

24

Provide more sustainable public transport alternatives to the private car and continue to manage the Concessionary Travel Schemes efficiently and effectively

24.1

Work with delivery bodies, particularly Sustrans and Cycling Scotland to implement the Cycling Action Plan for Scotland (CAPS, updated in June 2013), along with wider work to promote active travel more broadly. Oversee a programme of cycling infrastructure development delivered by Sustrans in partnership with local authorities, with TS grant-funding. A second national Cycling Summit is planned for Autumn 2014

Transport Policy

24.2

Work to disseminate learning from the Smarter Choices Smarter Places demonstration programme and build momentum around delivery by local authorities and partners of 'smarter measures' initiatives to promote sustainable travel in communities. Grant-funding to CarPlus to continue to expand the network of car clubs in Scotland.

Transport Policy

24.3

Grant-funded work with the Energy Saving Trust to promote sustainable travel to organisations and businesses, and engagement with networks such as the 2020 Climate Group and the Public Sector Climate Leaders Forum.

Transport Policy

24.4

Work with the Bus Stakeholder Group (including regulators, RTPs and LAs, user groups, bus operators) to develop shared understanding of the Scottish bus market and identify and implement changes to regulations, guidance or operational practice that could improve the functioning of the market or the quality, availability and accessibility of services

Transport Policy

24.5

Continue to support the acquisition of more low carbon buses into the Scottish Fleet through the Scottish Green Bus Fund

Transport Policy

24.6

Research the state of the community transport sector and work with stakeholders to identify options for improving how central and local government work with the sector to complement conventional public transport services

Transport Policy

24.7

Work with CPT and other stakeholders to agree reimbursement arrangements for the National Concessionary Travel Scheme to succeed the present agreement which expires on 31 March 2015.

Transport Policy

24.8

Work with partners and relevant stakeholders to design, and, if successful in securing EU funding, to deliver project proposals

Transport Policy

24.9

Maintain and enhance business processes for optimising the efficiency and effectiveness of concessionary travel schemes

TRBO

24.10

Continue to manage Bus Services Operator Grant efficiently and effectively.

TRBO

25

Contribute to the development of Glasgow Fastlink core bus scheme in advance of the Commonwealth Games

25.1

Represent TS interests on the SPT-led Fastlink Project Board to monitor progress to ensure project objectives are delivered to cost and time

Transport Policy

25.2

Effectively manage payments to SPT to ensure delivery of the Fastlink Project in line with the grant offer

Transport Policy

26

Work with rail industry to develop electrification programme

26.1

Work with Network Rail and the ORR to ensure effective implementation of the rolling programme of electrification in Control Period 5 in line with HLOS requirements and established industry governance arrangements

Rail

26.2

Develop long-term plans for rolling electrification programme for CP6 and beyond

Rail

27

Improve rail journey times between our main cities

27.1

Confirm plans for improved services, journey times and journey opportunities for communities on Aberdeen to Inverness rail line

Rail

27.2

Confirm plans for improved services, journey times and journey opportunities for communities on Aberdeen to Central Belt rail lines

Rail

27.3

Confirm plans for improved services, journey times and journey opportunities for communities on Inverness to Perth rail line

Rail

28

Work with freight industry to ensure that the movement of freight through the entire supply chain is efficient and sustainable, on an integrated and flexible transport infrastructure

28.1

Efficiently administer the freight mode shift grant schemes, supporting the transfer of freight from road to rail and water

AMFC

28.2

Continue activity required in Scotland to secure renewal of state aid clearance for WFG, MSRS and mode shift benefit values from 1 April 2015, including liaison with Department for Transport

AMFC

28.3

Harness the expertise of the Scottish Freight Logistics Advisory Group to address issues affecting the efficient movement of freight

AMFC

28.4

Continue to promote uptake of best practice to the freight industry

AMFC

28.5

Engage with organisations involved in the freight supply chain to gather intelligence which will better inform policy decisions

AMFC

28.6

Contribute freight policy advice to air quality emissions work, including Scottish Transport Emissions Partnership (STEP) and development of a Low Emissions Strategy

AMFC

28.7

Ensure the continuing relevance of the Rail Freight Strategy and promote Scottish Strategic Rail Freight Investment Fund

Rail

29

Demonstrate environmental sustainability through the delivery of environmental protection, community benefit and climate change mitigation/adaptation across our operations, projects and maintenance activities.

29.1

Support the on-going development of the Scottish Government's Low Carbon agenda, as set out in the second Report on Proposals and Policies (RPP2) published in June 2013, with work on implementation with stakeholders including the 2020 Climate Group and the wider public sector

Transport Policy

29.2

Promote and support the uptake of electric vehicles through the E-Cosse partnership, the delivery of commitments in Switched On Scotland: A Roadmap to Widespread Adoption of Plug-in Vehicles.

Transport Policy

29.3

Continue to develop the ChargePlace Scotland network of electric vehicle charging points.

Transport Policy

29.4

Work with a range of partners, such as UKH2Mobility and the Scottish Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association, to ensure Scotland is at the forefront of the roll-out of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

Transport Policy

29.5

Support the Association of Community Rail Partnerships (ACORP) in the promotion of Community Rail Partnerships across Scotland

Rail

29.6

Undertake noise management actions as identified in the Transport Noise Action Plan

MTRIPS / TRBO / Rail

29.7

Ensure environmental protection and minimise environmental impact across Transport Scotland activities, with particular focus on flooding, air quality, and noise emissions

MTRIPS / TRBO / Rail

29.8

Implement deliverables within the Transport Sector Climate Change Adaptation Action Plan to adapt our infrastructure as far as possible to minimise the effects of climate change on transport users

MTRIPS / TRBO / Rail / AMFC

29.9

Work with organisations including Visit Scotland, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park Authority, Cairngorms National Park Authority, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Canals, Forestry Commission Scotland, Sustrans and Edinburgh Napier Univeristy, to develop the Scottish Scenic Routes initiative.

TRBO

29.10

Continue to manage the flora and fauna of the trunk road network to protect the natural environment of Scotland and maximise biodiversity

TRBO

29.11

Maintain Climate Change Action Plan to ensure that climate change mitigation and adaptation considerations are embedded in Transport Scotland's operations

MTRIPS / TRBO / RAIL / AMFC

29.12

Reduce operational emissions via actions identified in the Carbon Management Plan and publish a Sustainability Report

MTRIPS

Increased safety, more innovation

30

Work jointly with partners to achieve Scotland's casualty reduction milestones for 2015, and to take forward the action plan set out in Scotland's Road Safety Framework to 2020

30.1

Monitor and report road safety casualty information to the RSF strategic board throughout the year and co-ordinate resultant agreed action

Transport Policy

30.2

Monitor and support delivery of RSF commitments, reporting action and achievement and highlighting success risks and issues to the RSF Strategic Board throughout the year and co-ordinate agreed action

Transport Policy

30.3

Develop policy in key agreed areas through stakeholder engagement and analysis of evidence to support RSF commitments and casualty reduction

Transport Policy

30.4

Continue to promote good road user behaviours by investing in education and publicity resources and undertaking social marketing in priority areas

Transport Policy

30.5

Encourage, support and promulgate the evaluation of road safety interventions to evidence best practice and lessons learned

Transport Policy

30.6

Pursue legislative competence to be transferred to the Scottish Parliament for the setting of specified school transport safety measures

Transport Policy

30.7

Engage with stakeholders to support safety camera partnership working across Scotland and ensure continuity of service delivery throughout and beyond Police reform

TRBO

30.8

Undertake high-level review of the safety camera programme

TRBO

30.9

Make a contribution to working towards the Scottish Government Road Safety Framework to 2020 by reducing casualties on the motorway and trunk road network

TRBO

31

Develop and introduce innovative ways of improving the transport networks, for example overtaking lanes and flyover junctions

31.1

Introduce Wi-Fi on rail routes served by c380 fleet during 2014. Install Wi-Fi apparatus on 40 of the c158 fleet to maximise Wi-Fi coverage during Ryder Cup week.

Rail

31.2

Improve journey time reliability and investigate opportunities to alleviate congestion on the road network through the use of technology or the optimisation of existing technology.

TRBO

31.3

Look for opportunities to undertake feasibility work associated with the outcome of the study into how to make optimal use of the motorway network through deployment of managed motorway technologies, including on M8, M74 and M80 (towards Glasgow)

TRBO

31.4

Continue to develop Road Design Standards in liaison with other UK Overseeing Organisations

TRBO

32

Provide a range of safety enhancements on the A9 and on the A75 and A77 routes serving the key ferry terminals to Ireland

32.1

Complete the construction phases of the A75 Hardgrove to Kinmount and the A77 Symington to Bogend Toll projects

MTRIPS

32.2

Work together with contractor to ensure that local communities, businesses and other interested parties are kept informed of progress of construction projects on the A75 and A77

MTRIPS

33

Work with bus operators to deliver quality and innovation

33.1

Manage grants under the first round of the Bus Investment Fund and run a second round during 2014-15.

Transport Policy

33.2

Work with operators, local authorities and RTPs as appropriate to support the development and implementation of partnerships to improve services

Transport Policy

Continuously improving performance and organisation

34

Work closely with partners including all Scottish Local Authorities and Regional Transport Partnerships to deliver integrated transport solutions which support the SG Purpose and local and national outcomes

34.1

Work with RTPs to ensure optimal delivery of transport policies, projects and services, taking account of the conclusions of the Joint SG/RTPs Working Group

Transport Policy

34.2

Develop project to investigate integrated transport systems

Transport Policy

34.3

Develop and implement a strategy to inform policies and solution to improving rail integration with other modes

Rail

35

Work with UK Government and wider rail industry bodies to ensure efficient and affordable outcomes for Scotland for both devolved and reserved issues, including accessibility, European and safety policy

35.1

Ensure UK Government representations on the development and implementation of the Fourth Railway Package appropriately reflect the policies and priorities of the Scottish Government

Rail

35.2

Support whole-industry collaboration and efficiency through existing and planned Alliance arrangements

Rail

36

Work with key stakeholders on the National Roads Maintenance Review focussing on delivering efficiencies in managing the Scottish road asset

36.1

Work with the new Scottish Road Works Commissioner to reduce the impact and duration of road works

Transport Policy

36.2

Decide and implement proposals on the management, planning and undertaking of road works in the light of the 2013-14 strategic consultation

Transport Policy

36.3

Work with CoSLA, SCOTS and SOLACE and improvement Service through the Road Maintenance Strategic Action Group, the Road Maintenance Stakeholder Group and the Roads Improvement Board to deliver the outcomes of the Review of Roads Maintenance in Scotland

TRBO

37

Manage delivery of the National Transport Strategy

37.1

Continue to monitor delivery of National Transport Strategy

Transport Policy

37.2

Seek opportunities to secure EU funding to drive major projects 2014-20

Transport Policy

38

Manage and monitor the delivery of transport services through appropriate contractual mechanism

38.1

Ensure First ScotRail meets or exceeds its obligations under the franchise agreement.

Rail

38.2

Monitor First ScotRail performance using the Service Quality Incentive Regime (SQUIRE). Regular programme of inspections on-going and continue to meet requirements. Roll out inspections at new stations and on new rolling stock.

Rail

38.3

Identify opportunities to obtain additional benefits for passengers linked to ScotRail obligations.

Rail

38.4

Deliver obligations within the First ScotRail continuation agreement.

Rail

39

Specify and deliver ScotRail franchise agreement for passenger services from 2014 onwards

39.1

Review and Monitor the delivery of the ScotRail franchise agreement for 2014 and beyond

Rail

39.2

Finalise evaluation, negotiation and clarification of procurement. Award the contract and commence mobilisation of ScotRail.

Rail

39.3

Finalise evaluation, negotiation and clarification of procurement. Award the contract and commence mobilisation of Sleeper

Rail

40

Work with Scottish Canals so that it can maximise its cross cutting contribution to the SG Purpose and national outcomes.

40.1

Continue effective sponsorship of Scottish Canals as it adjusts to being in the Scottish public sector

AMFC

40.2

Undertake recruitment/reappointment activity as appropriate for NEDs reaching the end of their term of appointment

AMFC

40.3

Review progress made by Scottish Canals in adjusting to the Scottish public sector

AMFC

41

Work with Office of Rail Regulation and industry to develop proposals on delivering a sustainable, integrated railway in Scotland.

41.1

Work with the UK Government to fully assess the detailed implications of Network Rail reclassification for the Scottish Government and the management of the rail infrastructure in Scotland. Develop clear SG priorities and opportunities for strengthened legislation, structural change, industry governance, scrutiny and accountability, management of debt and requirements for future investment.

Rail

41.2

Work with ORR and industry to manage the HLOS funds

Rail

42

Improve resilience across the transport networks

42.1

Continue to enhance rail sector's resilience in dealing with the consequences of any disruption and/or emergency. Advise ministers and engage with the rail and wider industry as appropriate.

Rail

42.2

Liaise with ScotRail on the planning/ delivery of additional services and capacity for special events, such as the Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup and the Edinburgh Festival.

Rail

42.3

Ensure all major events of national significance held in Scotland during 2014 are able to take place successfully by helping to make travel attractive to the success of the events.

TRBO / ALL

42.4

Respond effectively to resilience challenges which adversely impact on the national transport network

TRBO

42.5

Support our on-going commitment to resilience preparedness by holding a training exercise for loss of a key section of the central belt motorway trunk road network building upon knowledge gained in Exercise Alban Targe and TS input into Resilience events

TRBO

42.6

Look for opportunities to undertake feasibility work associated with the outcome of the study into how to make optimal use of the motorway network through deployment of managed motorway technologies, including on M8, M74 and M80 (towards Glasgow)

TRBO

43

Improve Business processes

43.1

Implement appropriate actions following results of Annual Employee Engagement Surveys

Rail

43.2

Provide advice and guidance to Ministers on the performance and resilience of our rail networks

Rail

43.3

Ensure Benefit Realisation plans are in place for rail projects and timetable changes

Rail

43.4

Review the use of resources in line with Best Value Principles.

Finance

43.5

Ensure all suppliers to Agency are paid within timescales set by SG. This within the confines of TS operations. Target should be to achieve no less than 96% every month

Finance

43.6

Deliver robust financial performance assurance, financial planning and financial reporting services to transport Scotland

Finance

43.7

Ensure Road Asset Valuation System (RAVS) delivers appropriate accounting for road network asset

Finance

43.8

Document and report upon the financial performance of Transport Scotland against its available budget

Finance

43.9

Ensure TS meets all requirements set by Scottish Government to deliver financial statements under IFRS regulations

Finance

43.10

Develop and implement a Project Bank Account trial on the A96 Inveramsay Bridge contract.

MTRIPS

43.11

Deliver community benefits through procurement activity.

MTRIPS

43.12

Provide opportunities for SME's and the Third Sector in TS contracts.

MTRIPS

43.13

Identify opportunities, where practicable, to utilise Supported Businesses to supply TS.

MTRIPS

43.14

Add value through procurement activity.

MTRIPS

43.15

Undertake TS procurement activity in a sustainable manner.

MTRIPS

43.16

Maintain Transport Scotland's 'Superior' procurement rating.

MTRIPS

43.17

Engage with, retain and develop quality staff to meet business priorities within available resources

BICS

43.18

Provide Health & Safety, HR, IT, Business Improvements, Communications, Facilities Management and Legal Services to all of Transport Scotland

BICS

43.19

Continue to review and improve internal systems, processes and business practices to achieve service targets

BICS/All

43.20

Continue to improve communications via Digital Media, following latest best practice guidelines to engage further with stakeholders on website and social media channels

BICS

43.21

Implement appropriate actions following results of Annual Employee Engagement Surveys

ALL

43.22

Test and review the Transport Scotland Business Continuity Plan on an annual basis

ALL

44

Ensure that equalities and cultural issues underpin all of Transport Scotland's activities

44.1

Ensure the Rail Directorate implements the range of activities that addresses the TS Equality Duty. Continue to engage with rail stakeholder groups involved in the area of disability and access to rail services.

Rail

44.2

Continue to engage with transport stakeholder groups including for specific developments such as to Implement the Trunk Road Disability Equality Scheme and Action Plan through the Roads for All Forum and support the work of the Scottish Rail Accessibility Forum and support disabled bus and coach traveller interests through the Bus Stakeholder Group

TRBO/Rail/ Transport Policy

44.3

Offer our staff volunteering opportunities with particular focus on educational engagement as part of our Corporate Social Responsibility

BICS

44.4

Ensure continued use of the Gaelic language throughout Transport Scotland in line with the Scottish Government Gaelic Language Plan

BICS

44.5

To recognise the Mobility and Access committee for Scotland (MACS) as a key resources providing guidance and advice on disability issues affecting the travelling public.

Transport Policy

45

Ensure effective implementation of the reforms to the Blue badge scheme, including associated legislation and support materials including a new on-line application form, revise leaflets and Code of Practice for local authorities.

45.1

Ensure the progress of primary and secondary legislation through to implementation in relation to the enforcement administration and eligibility of the blue badge scheme

Transport Policy

45.2

Raise awareness of the blue badge scheme and how it operates amongst blue badge holders and the general public

Transport Policy

45.3

Improve the evidence base in relation to eligibility and impact of the blue badge scheme locally

Transport Policy

45.4

Ensure that Scottish interests are represented through the Blue Badge Improvement Service (BBIS)

Transport Policy

46

Continue to support Mobility and Access Committee Scotland (MACS) and Passengers' View Scotland in promoting increased accessibility and providing advice to Ministers from the passenger perspective.

46.1

Provide full secretariat support to MACS to assist the committee to conduct their quarterly meetings and manage their correspondence

Transport Policy

46.2

Ensure that advice and recommendations from MACS to Scottish Ministers is in line with their stated remit

Transport Policy

46.3

Work with Bus Users Scotland to ensure effective advocacy of bus users' interests, on-road monitoring of services and handling users' complaints

Transport Policy

47

Develop and deliver a programme of transport statistics collection, analysis and publication, and for Transport Social and Economic Research.

47.1

Enhance and deliver a programme of transport statistics collection, analysis, publishing in line with National Statistics protocols

Analytical Services

47.2

Develop, manage and deliver the internal Transport Analytical Services work programme, balancing short term and longer term evidence needs

Analytical Services

47.3

Gather customer feedback information including experience and use of concessionary travel and satisfaction in relation to trunk roads

TRBO

48

Deliver an evidence base to inform the development of effective Scottish transport policy including a Transport Social and Economic Research Programme.

48.1

Manage and prioritise the Transport Social and Economic Research Programme

Analytical Services

48.2

Continue to chair and promote research through the Scottish Road Research Board and input, support and promote research through industry bodies including SCOTS, CIRIA, UK Roads Liaison Group, UK Bridges Board, Bridge Owners Forum, Scottish Urban Air Quality Steering Group and CBDG

TRBO

49

Deliver efficient operation in line with Efficient Government and the SG Workforce 2015 programme and People Strategy.

49.1

Provide and co-ordinate monitoring information to facilitate the delivery of efficiencies during March 2015

Finance

50

Facilitate robust investment planning and decision making processes

50.1

Maintain and enhance transport and land use models that are fit for purpose and support the objectives of Scottish Government

MTRIPS

50.2

Continue refinement and updating of appraisal guidance and assessment tools (STAG, DPMTAG, NESA, PEARS, AIRE, TREAD)

MTRIPS

50.3

Monitor and evaluate the performance of trunk road investment

MTRIPS