Understanding the Impact of Ongoing Roadworks on Your Travel Plans Stay informed about how current roadworks may affect your travel arrangements. Learn about the measures implemented to keep you updated and ensure a smooth journey.
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Roads serve as the arteries of our transport network, playing a vital role in connecting communities and facilitating daily commutes. However, maintaining these routes is essential to ensure safety and efficiency. This article examines the current state of roadworks in England and Wales, highlighting the impact on travel and how to stay updated on closures and maintenance schedules.
Current roadwork updates
Significant construction activities are underway across England’s motorway and major A road networks. These full closures are typically scheduled between 8 PM and 6 AM; however, some may extend beyond 12 hours, particularly for large-scale projects.
Travelers should be aware that if they are on the road early in the morning, they might encounter closures initiated the previous evening.
How to find closure information
The best way to keep abreast of planned road closures is through dedicated websites that provide real-time updates.
By selecting a specific date, users can access a list of all anticipated closures, allowing them to plan their journeys accordingly. If a road appears under the ‘Filters’ section, it indicates that a full closure is expected within the upcoming week.
Moreover, the details tab on these platforms offers a comprehensive overview of ongoing schemes and the traffic management strategies employed during the construction phase. Regular updates are provided twice daily from Monday to Friday, ensuring that travelers have the most accurate information available.
Understanding the maintenance process
In Monmouthshire, the local council is committed to preserving road quality through necessary repair work. Essential roadworks are coordinated by the Highways Network Management team, which collaborates with utility companies to minimize disruptions. Quarterly meetings are held to discuss planned projects and address any potential conflicts with other scheduled events.
Licensing and permissions for roadwork
For those wishing to conduct works on the public highway, obtaining the appropriate licenses is crucial. The New Road and Street Works Act 1991 outlines the requirements for placing or maintaining apparatus within public roads, necessitating a Section 50 license. Additionally, any excavation work requires a Section 171 license as per the Highways Act 1980.
Before submitting any license applications, it is advisable to schedule a joint site meeting with an inspector to address potential issues and clarify any concerns. This proactive approach helps ensure that all parties are informed and prepared for the upcoming work.
Potholes: A growing concern in the UK
The ongoing issue of potholes continues to plague UK roads, contributing significantly to vehicle breakdowns. The RAC reports that thousands of pothole-related incidents were attended in 2026, with estimates suggesting there are over one million potholes nationwide. The government’s commitment of £1.6 billion to address this crisis underscores the urgency of the situation.
According to a recent Freedom of Information request, over 556,000 potholes were reported in England during the financial year 2026/22. This figure does not account for roads in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland, indicating that the actual number of potholes could be two to three times greater. Despite attempts to fill 1.4 million potholes in the past year, the challenge remains formidable.
Raising awareness and seeking solutions
Drivers have expressed growing dissatisfaction with road conditions, as evidenced by recent surveys indicating that nearly half view local roads as their primary concern. Although the percentage of drivers reporting worsening conditions has decreased, potholes continue to cause significant vehicle damage. The RAC advocates for a shift towards preventative maintenance to address these issues before they escalate.
Significant construction activities are underway across England’s motorway and major A road networks. These full closures are typically scheduled between 8 PM and 6 AM; however, some may extend beyond 12 hours, particularly for large-scale projects. Travelers should be aware that if they are on the road early in the morning, they might encounter closures initiated the previous evening.0
