National Highways published the initial report on the third investment period 2025-2030 for England’s Strategic Road Network that looks at achieving zero operation emissions, a fully digitally-enable network and a focus on smaller local schemes.
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On 18 May2023 National Highways released its Strategic Road Network Initial Report , outlining the condition of England’s Strategic Road Network, the proposals for investment and delivery for 2025-2030, based on research of the priorities for customers, communities, stakeholders, and national requirement.
The report was published alongside National Highways’ long term strategic plan “Connecting our Country” that sets out the vision for 2050. The future strategy takes a “decide and provide” approach, where trend analysis and scenario modelling informed National Highways’ vision:
“the SRN is part of a seamlessly integrated transport system that meets our customers’ needs by connecting the country safely and reliably, delivering economic prosperity, social value and a thriving environment”
Key focus areas were identified:
While adopting future projection of increasing traffic growth, National Highways recognised that uncertainty, latest changes in behaviour due to Covid-19 and a population decline, will impact demand. Addressing capacity demand will remain a focus, but new ways will be explored to also comply with carbon reduction targets.
National highways’ “Environmental Sustainability Strategy” recognised that the Third Road Investment Strategy is a key moment for Net Zero, aiming at zero operation emissions and a reduction of up to 50% of maintenance and construction emissions by 2030. Carbon reduction will be informing all works on the network and corporate operations, meaning the application of PAS 2080 and the use of circular economy principles.
The Third Road Investment Strategy will promote a fully digitally-enable road network. The strategy promotes digital connectivity by providing customers with more real-time information and supporting the transition to autonomous vehicles.
The third period of investments will also be advised by the ambitious Zero Harm Vision, realised through digital transition and a holistic Safe System approach. Specifically, National Highways aims at a 50% improvement in accident risk reduction on 1-star and 2-star roads. Investments in safety communication campaigns, partnership with different organisation and services will also be important to spread awareness and education on road safety issues.
Overall, National Highways has declared a “targeted approach” to enhancing the network. Current network improvements and previous committed schemes are prioritised, together with a focus on smaller £2-25 million local schemes to support levelling up and unlock economic opportunities.
The Department for Transport has opened an 8-week consultation on the Initial report which will help revise National Highways proposals and decide funds allocation for 2025-2030, which is yet to be finalised.
We previously reached out to our professionals to understand “What are CIHT members' priorities for the Road Investment Strategy 3?” and we will further engage with our membership to provide opportunities to learn more about the future strategy and inform our final response.
Join other savvy professionals just like you at CIHT. We are committed to fulfilling your professional development needs throughout your career
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