£4 billion investment to renew ageing roads in South East
This investment is part of the Road Investment Strategy 3 which will run from 2026 to 2031
Drivers in the South East are being promised significant upgrades to the region's road infrastructure, following the Government's commitment of over £4 billion towards road improvements.
This investment is part of the Road Investment Strategy 3 (RIS3), which will run from 2026 to 2031 and aims to modernise England’s motorways and major A-roads for more reliable journeys.
The funding will be allocated to resurfacing efforts, pothole repairs, and addressing deteriorated stretches, contributing to smoother roads for both personal and commercial travel.
Key Projects and Initiatives
Major projects in the plan include upgrades to key junctions, such as Junction 10 of the M25 and Junction 9 of the M3, with a focus on improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.
Additionally, funds are earmarked for the Lower Thames Crossing, a new route aimed at better connectivity and alleviating congestion.
Further improvements have been approved for local roads including:
-A collection of safety improvements to the A34 in Oxfordshire and North Berkshire, including improving lay-bys
-A collection of safety improvements to the A21 in Kent and Sussex
-Improvements to the A27 between Lewes and Eastbourne, including improvements to junctions around Eastbourne, dualling south of the Polegate roundabout
-A27 Arundel Railway Bridge Replacement
-A259 (Kings Road) Seafront, Highway Structures. reconstruction of key structures, including arches and retaining walls supporting the upper seafront promenade
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander highlighted the goal of addressing infrastructure challenges to ensure dependable travel routes across the region:
"This investment in our roads will secure the future of our road network in the South East for years to come.
“Not only are we investing in renewing our roads, meaning smoother and faster journeys for drivers, we are getting on with investing into brand new projects and fixing potholes, which will deliver benefits right across the South East.”
Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “By investing in existing infrastructure and new schemes, such as the transformational Lower Thames Crossing, we are giving everyone the confidence they can get from A to B faster and smoother than ever before.”