Variation to the third Road Investment Strategy (RIS3) – Transport Focus response

16 September 2026

Transport Focus has submitted a response to the Department for Transport’s (DfT) RIS3 variation consultation.

Transport Focus strongly agrees that maintaining and renewing the existing strategic road network should take priority over enhancements, and strongly supports the prioritisation of maintenance and renewals within the variation to RIS3.

However, we also consider it imperative that operational element of capital spend is protected to the greatest extent possible. It is only through the combination of operations, maintenance and renewals that road user priorities and satisfaction can be addressed.

You can read our full response below.

Transport Focus is the independent consumer watchdog representing the interests of rail users throughout Great Britain; bus, coach and tram users across England, outside London; and users of the motorways and major ‘A’ roads in England. Working with transport providers and governments across England, Scotland and Wales – and in partnership with our colleagues at London TravelWatch – we ensure that the users’ voice is heard.

We are responding to this consultation from our perspective as passenger champions and our understanding of the experiences of road users.

Variation to the third Road Investment Strategy Transport Focus response

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