Regulator Profile

National Highways

Enforcement Regulator

3

Areas of regulation

10

Laws enforced

England

Quick links

Visit official website Email National Highways Call 0300 123 5000

Highways Specifications Standards

What National Highways does

Government company responsible for operating, maintaining, and improving England's strategic road network (motorways and major A-roads). Sets standards for highway design, construction, and maintenance. Issues technical standards and specifications for road construction works.

Additional information

Formerly Highways England. Key source of technical standards (DMRB, MCHW) for road construction. Works with local highway authorities.

Legal framework

Legislation that National Highways enforces.

Primary legislation

• Highways Act 1980 Act 1980
• Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 Act 1984
• New Roads and Street Works Act 1991 Act 1991
• Traffic Management Act 2004 Act 2004

Secondary legislation

• Motorways Traffic (England and Wales) Regulations 1982 UK Statutory Instrument 1982
• The Street Works (Reinstatement) Regulations 1992 UK Statutory Instrument 1992
• Road Vehicles (Authorisation of Special Types) (General) Order 2003 UK Statutory Instrument 2003
• Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 (TSRGD 2016) UK Statutory Instrument 2016
• Smart Motorways (England) Regulations 2022 UK Statutory Instrument 2022
• Street and Road Works (Charges and Penalties) (Amendments) (England) Regulations 2025 UK Statutory Instrument 2025

Sectors regulated

Construction