The Labour government is considering introducing six new road rules aimed at improving safety and efficiency for millions of road users across the UK. A consultation on updates to the safety regulations governing street and road works is currently open and will close in mid-December.
The Department for Transport launched the consultation on 21 September 2026, inviting stakeholders and the public to provide their views on proposed changes to the Safety at Street Works and Road Works Code of Practice (COP). This statutory guidance sets out how street and road works on public roads and highways should be signed, lit, and guarded to ensure the safety of workers, motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and other vulnerable road users.
Since the last update in 2013, there have been changes in legislation, guidance, and working practices, and the proposed amendments seek to reflect these developments. The primary objectives remain to protect workers through appropriate signage, barriers, and lighting, as well as to safeguard road users by minimising risks associated with road works.
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Additionally, the updated code aims to provide clear, practical instructions for the effective setup and management of work sites. It also focuses on mitigating accidents and injuries, while reducing traffic disruption to maintain smooth vehicle flow.
The government emphasises the importance of the consultation as an opportunity to ensure the revised code is clear, practical, and effective for all users. Interested parties are encouraged to submit their responses by the closing date, 14 December 2026.