Roads

The need for safe, reliable and consistent road journeys is not to be underestimated. We are clear that while enabling people and goods to move more sustainably is a high priority, in a region like the East with spread out communities and lots of rural places, roads are going to be needed for many journeys.

We want our roads to be safe, efficient and resilient for the people who travel on them. They are an important asset, and so maintaining them well is most important.

We also need to target improvements to where they will be most effective and make sure those upgrades include better options for walking, cycling, wheeling and public transport. New technology can also help the region manage demand for road space more efficiently.

The management and improvements of the region’s roads are split into two main authorities:

• National Highways are the national road authority for the Strategic Road Network – the biggest roads.
• Local Transport Authorities are the county or unitary councils who are responsible for the local road network – everything from country lanes and residential streets to main A-roads not managed by National Highways.