The Department for Transport’s has issued its third road investment strategy (RIS3), setting out the Government’s priorities for the strategic road network in England from 2026 to 2031. It presents a high-level vision for the network and its role in:

• Funding for operating, maintaining and enhancing the road network
• Providing the main areas for the transportation of goods
• Describing the priority areas where investment will focus

The draft RIS3 will also measure performance outcome areas for National Highways, which are responsible for the strategic road network (SRN).

This strategy, says DfT, was influenced by the following consultations:

• National Highways SRN initial report
• Department for Transport’s shaping the future of England’s strategic roads

“The third Road Investment Strategy will form a core component of the government’s new ten-year Infrastructure Strategy, which sets out a long-term vision for nationally significant infrastructure that supports sustainable growth, connectivity, and resilience,” says Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander MP.

“Within this framework, published in June 2025, the government expects National Highways to play a central role; not only as the operator of the Strategic Road Network, but as a key delivery partner contributing to broader national objectives. RIS3 will also align with the government’s environmental goals, supporting economic growth, national resilience, and environmental sustainability over the long term. It is essential that the road sector plays its part in the goal of decarbonising the economy as well as being resilient to the effects of a changing climate.

Our transport infrastructure must serve everyone. By investing in the SRN across the country, we will reduce regional inequalities, ensuring that all parts of the UK benefit from faster, safer, and more reliable road travel. The transport sector faces the competing opportunities and pressures of making the road system deliver its benefits in a decarbonised world, whilst supporting economic growth. The publication of, and delivering on, the Transport Decarbonisation Plan and National Highways’ Net Zero Plan shows that the road sector can play its part in the goal of decarbonising the whole economy. We will continue to ensure that our roads remain amongst the safest in the world – helping drivers not just to be safe, but crucially, to feel safe and confident when driving. Our objectives for RIS3 will be a continuation of the work begun in the first two road periods. Safety, customer service and delivery will remain the cornerstones of the way the SRN is managed. RIS3 will also build on work started in RIS2 to ensure that through a long term focus on maintenance and renewals, the network remains safe and fit for the future.”

The full RIS3 document can be downloaded as a PDF here.

(Pic: Department for Transport)