This contribution defines both the governments and the contractors role in the economic and quality control aspects of road construction. Government has to manage the public finances, and therefore has to keep a tight rein on spending whereas the contractor has to make a profit. Politicians also have different targets to meet other than those relating solely to construction requirements. These roles are not necessarily contradictory. A number of quality criteria which depend upon financial criteria have been tested. The results show that much improvement in pavement design is possible. This is not the case for production plant. However improvements are possible in the construction stage particularly an improvement in the quality of labour. Quality control also needs improving.
Abstract