Schedule 1 of the West Midlands Combined Authority (Functions and Amendments) Order 2017 prescribes a list of roads designated as Combined Authority Roads, also known as Key Network Roads (KNR) or referred to collectively as the Key Route Network (KRN). The designation of the KRN was intended to support the growth ambition of the region through strategic coordination, investment and management of the most important roads in the region. The order also sets out specific functions and powers that apply to the KRN (Appendix A).
The explicit designation of Roads in Schedule 1 (Appendix B) prevents WMCA from exercising powers under Section 107ZA of Local Democracy and Construction Act 2009 (2009 Act) which grants the power to Combined Authorities to designate or remove a highway in its area as a Key Network Road (KNR), subject to the consent of its constituent authorities and its Mayor.
It is desirable for WMCA to have the powers to add or remove roads from the KRN in order to respond to evolving regional policy priorities, local changes in travel demand and funding opportunities including Integrated Settlement. In practical terms, this change will not impact upon the way in which the Key Network Roads in Birmingham are managed, with the Council remaining responsible for the day-to-day management of these roads. Discussions with Department for Transport (DfT) have concluded that the most appropriate way to resolve this discrepancy is to obtain an amendment to the 2017 order to remove the designation of Combined Authority roads in Schedule 1. This proposal was the subject of public consultation carried out by WMCA from 23 June to 15 August 2025.
WMCA Board will consider options and reach a decision on whether Schedule 1 should be removed at its meeting on 12 September 2025. WMCA then require further consent from constituent authorities before the proposal will be submitted to DfT. Given the timescales and the relatively technical nature of this amendment it is recommended that the decision for Birmingham City Council to consent to the proposal and the subsequent decision regarding the laying of the Order, be taken under delegated authority. This report is required to provide this delegated authority to the Assistant Director Transport and Connectivity, in consultation with the relevant Portfolio Holder.