Campaign highlight – Draft Road Investment Strategy 3 published 

There will be £25 billion of investment over five years (2026-2031) in the SRN with 43% focused on maintenance and renewals rather than new capacity. This comes in response to consultation feedback as well as fiscal constraints, with explicit recognition that poor road conditions act as a "tax on business". 

The smart motorways programme will be permanently cancelled and RIS pipeline schemes (including potential future enhancements) will be deferred until after 2030 or RIS4, meaning no new major capacity projects will start during this period. 

There is welcome commitment to "meet the specific needs of the freight and logistics sector" including addressing weight restrictions and improving driver facilities. 

The final strategy will be published by March 2026 following National Highways' draft Strategic Business Plan (due in September 2025) and the Office of Road and Rail efficiency review (due in November 2025), with implementation beginning in April 2026. 

Logistics UK has welcomed the recognition the sector receives in the draft strategy, as well as the emphasis on improving the condition of the road network. The business group is now calling for the focus to switch to delivery of the aims and objectives laid out in the Strategy.