AtkinsRéalis appointed to update Well-managed Highway Infrastructure Code of Practice

Last published in 2016, the Code is a cornerstone document that guides highway authorities across the UK in the effective, risk-based management of their networks. With the emergence of new technologies, evolving policy landscapes and shifts in stakeholder needs, a comprehensive update is now essential to ensure the Code's continued relevance and effectiveness.

AtkinsRéalis will work closely with the UK Roads Leadership Group (UKRLG) boards, DfT and industry experts to not only refresh the Code’s content, but also produce a strengthened governance framework, executive summaries to aid communication of key principles, technical updates to the risk-based approach, and a searchable digital platform designed to improve usability and maintenance. The programme will also produce training and implementation materials to support sector-wide adoption and embedment.

Mike Batheram, AtkinsRéalis Market Director for Local Transport, said: “The WMHI Code has become the industry’s basis for risk-based asset management, helping highway authorities tailor their approach to local needs and priorities. Having led the development of the original 2016 Code, we understand both the technical complexities and the collaborative process required to create guidance that works in practice. Our experience will help to bring together diverse sector groups and stakeholders to co-create content that benefits the entire industry.”

Roads and Buses Minister, Simon Lightwood, said: “Roads are the backbone of our economy, keeping people and goods moving up and down the country. Updating the Code of Practice will make our roads safer and journeys smoother, while encouraging local authorities to use new technology that drives growth and supports local businesses.”

The appointment follows a stakeholder engagement and document review that identified clear needs for modernisation. Practitioners highlighted requirements for an enhanced digital format, continuously updated reference materials, and practical resources. The review also found that new guidance is needed on themes including artificial intelligence, carbon management, climate adaptation and inclusion considerations.

To ensure comprehensive and balanced industry input, AtkinsRéalis and UKRLG will establish a Steering Group and Working Groups for each section of the Code. The collaborative approach aims to co-produce content that reflects real-world needs and experiences, along with emerging best practice.

AtkinsRéalis has extensive experience in highways policy and infrastructure asset management, including authoring a report on the economic benefits of local highways maintenance for DfT in 2024. The company supports many local and national highway authorities in the UK and overseas, has contributed to the development of the international standard for asset management (ISO55000), and has 20 representatives on the PIARC (World Road Association) Technical Committee for Asset Management.

AtkinsRéalis’ appointment was made through the Specialist Professional and Technical Services Framework (SPaTS2), where AtkinsRéalis operates in joint venture with Jacobs.

Notes to editors

Though not legally binding, the WMHI Code demonstrates best practice and helps authorities manage risks while meeting their statutory duties. More information about the WMHI update is available on the CIHT website.

How to get involved

Practitioners interested in contributing to working groups or participating in public consultations should register their interest via [email protected] by 31 October 2025 to receive notifications when opportunities become available. A communications plan will also be agreed with the steering group to ensure the wider sector will continue to be made aware of the review’s progress and of opportunities to contribute.

About AtkinsRéalis

Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a better future for our planet and its people. We create sustainable solutions that connect people, data and technology to transform the world's infrastructure and energy systems. We deploy global capabilities locally to our clients and deliver unique end-to-end services across the whole life cycle of an asset including consulting, advisory & environmental services, intelligent networks & cybersecurity, design & engineering, procurement, project & construction management, operations & maintenance, decommissioning and capital. The breadth and depth of our capabilities are delivered to clients in strategic sectors such as Engineering Services, Nuclear and Capital.  News and information are available at www.atkinsrealis.com or follow us on LinkedIn.