News Archive
RIS3 released today
- Thursday March 26, 2026
The Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3) by the Department for Transport (DfT) has been released today.
The strategy covers the period 2026–2031 and sets out the government’s priorities for operation, maintenance and enhancement of the network as well as clear expectations for performance outcomes across safety, users, environment and efficiency of the network.
RIS3 has a strong focus on maintaining and renewing an ageing road network as it recognises that a large number of assets are reaching the end of their design life and require increased investment in renewal and replacement and in turn growing the economy.
The strategy also reinforces that safety remains a priority, with a continued ambition towards reducing those killed or seriously injured, underpinned by a “safe systems” approach and a long-term goal of zero harm.
RIS3 aims to deliver improved environmental outcomes, including reducing carbon emissions, improving air, noise and water impacts, and supporting biodiversity and nature recovery. It also aligns the strategic road network with wider net zero objectives, including decarbonising operations and supply chains.
There is also a clear direction towards a more technology enabled network and the use of data, innovation and digital tools to improve the reliability and operational efficiency for its road users.
For the highways sector, this signals a shift towards a more asset management and performance driven model that will build resilience and maximise the existing network enhancements with a continued focus on congestion points.
For the highways sector this presents both a challenge and an opportunity, to strengthen capabilities in asset management, digital delivery and low-carbon design and in turn delivering smarter, evidence-led interventions.
The IHE welcomes the Strategy.
Read the full document at: Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3): 2026 to 2031