Response to the draft Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3) publication
“We welcome the recent publication of the draft Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3).
“RIS3 will effectively set the direction and priorities for road investment over the next 5 years, and this draft provides clarity on the overall level of funding for road maintenance and improvements on the strategic road network, alongside the core priorities for National Highways. At this stage, it does not go into detail on specific schemes or programmes.
“We have worked closely with National Highways as they have developed the draft RIS3 to ensure the East’s road priorities informed the approach, and we are pleased to see the input we and the other STBs gave was well considered and valued.
“The strategy’s overall objectives align strongly with our regional priorities to connect growing places and unlock international gateways, with an emphasis on well-maintained and safe connections, while reducing the environmental impact of roads.
“As National Highways works to finalise the RIS3, we will continue to advocate for the region’s road investment priorities to help shape the detailed scheme and study programme ahead of the publication in 2026. The A12, A14, A47 and other key routes are critical to keeping the East connected and competitive, and we will keep working with our partners to ensure the East receives the recognition it deserves, working together to make the network fit for the future.”