Last published in 2016, the Well-Managed Highway Infrastructure (WMHI) Code of Practice is a cornerstone document that guides local highway authorities in the effective, risk-based management of their networks. With the emergence of new technologies, evolving policy landscapes and shifts in stakeholder needs, it’s now essential to undertake a comprehensive update of the Code of Practice (CoP) to ensure its continued relevance and effectiveness. 

In June, the Department for Transport moved forward with steps for the delivery and commissioning of work required to update the CoP. The plan is that UKRLG will retain ownership and stewardship of the updated CoP, with working groups including UKRLG sub-board members and industry experts co-authoring the content.

Local guidance

The latest version of the WMHI CoP provides guidance for local authorities on managing the UK’s highway networks. It emphasises a risk-based approach, encouraging authorities to tailor their policies to local circumstances rather than adhering to prescriptive standards. Though not legally binding, compliance demonstrates best practice and helps authorities to manage risks and meet their statutory duties. 

Given the time since publication, it was recognised that the current CoP needs updating to meet the needs of the highway network.

This will shape a modernised version of the CoP that reflects current best practices, technological advancements, legislative changes and stakeholder needs, ensuring effective and sustainable highway infrastructure management. 

Review and enhance

Ahead of plans to commission an update, a review of the existing CoP was undertaken. The stakeholder engagement and document review found that document users felt there was a need to establish a mechanism for continuously updating reference links and related materials to enhance the CoP’s usability through digital formats and practical resources. 

The content review of the existing CoP also highlighted the need to address technological, environmental and social challenges with new guidance on artificial intelligence, carbon, climate adaptation and inclusion. 

In addition, the review explored how people are supported and identified a clear need for the document to include the development of competency frameworks and promote training to support implementation. 

Update on the update

As the existing code has a risk-based approach, the direction of travel will be to maintain this approach while considering hybrid models with minimum standards. The updated CoP will include technical updates to both its content and structure, and include new areas such as carbon management. There are also plans to create executive summaries and training materials, as well as launch a searchable digital platform. 

As the roadmap for the update includes a need for industry co-authorship with coordinated quality assurance, the sector will be kept informed and engaged throughout the process.

Source code

To find out more about the WMHI Code of Practice, go to bit.ly/UKRLG-CoP