This paper reports the uses of local roads in developing countries and makes recommendations on their provision. The road does not produce benefits by itself but as part of transport infrastructure. Financial limits mean that minimum standards must be applied and local communities involved in planning. Demand must be assessed before construction, and the design must take into account the vehicles which will use the road. Maintenance and sustainability are essential for economic benefit. Transport for poor people has to be developed at the same time, of a type relevant to their needs. Relevant research in progress includes the international study on Highway Design and Management (HDM4), designed to upgrade the World Bank HDM-3 software widely used in many countries.
Samenvatting