The Department for Transport has published an updated Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual, bringing guidance on the design and operation of temporary traffic management together in one document.
The new edition replaces the previous three-part version covering design, operations and updates. It provides guidance for authorities, contractors, designers and others involved in planning and delivering road works, street works and other temporary traffic management arrangements.
National Highways, which maintains and updates Chapter 8 on behalf of the DfT, says the publication consolidates temporary traffic management best practice into a single document. The guidance is used across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The chapter covers the planning, design and implementation of temporary traffic management, including the installation, maintenance and removal of temporary signs and equipment. The updated publication runs to 611 pages and is available to download from GOV.UK.
Alongside the publication, National Highways has introduced a formal process allowing people working across the sector to suggest changes for future editions.
Submissions will pass through four stages, beginning with an initial form. National Highways will then contact applicants to explain how to provide the supporting information and documents needed for consideration.
A review panel will assess each submission and recommend whether the proposed change should be incorporated into Chapter 8. Where the panel recommends acceptance, a steering group comprising representatives from across the sector will make the final decision. Approved changes will be incorporated into the next published version.
National Highways says opening up the process will allow it to consider a wider range of contributions and draw on knowledge and experience across the sector.
Those preparing proposals are asked to read the submission guidance before applying. The published deadlines are March 2027 for Category A and B submissions and June 2027 for Category C submissions. Enquiries about the chapter can be sent to [email protected].
Download the updated Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8.
Find out how to propose changes through National Highways.
(Picture – National Highways)
