This week, we were proud to play a key role in supporting the Department for Transport (DfT) in engaging with local authorities on two major funding developments: the latest Highways Maintenance Incentive Funding requirements for 2026/27, and the announcement of a record £1 billion structures package to renew vital infrastructure, including bridges, flyovers, and tunnels.
Supporting DfT and Enabling Sector Engagement
Following the DfT’s letter to Chief Executives on Monday 13 April, which set out the incentive funding arrangements and requirements for 2026/27, we worked in close partnership with the Department to facilitate immediate and meaningful engagement with local authorities.
With just 24 hours’ notice, we convened more than 300 local authority professionals from 153 English highway authorities for an LCRIG-hosted webinar – a turn out that reflects the strength of our relationships across the sector. As the membership organisation for every English highway authority, our ability to bring authorities together quickly is something we’re uniquely placed to do.
This builds on our work in January, when we brought together over 300 participants from 134 authorities within 24 hours of the RAG ratings release, further demonstrating our capacity to mobilise the sector at pace.
Key Incentive Funding Requirements for 2026/27
As outlined by DfT, local highway authorities must meet several criteria to qualify for incentive funding, including:
- Publishing a highways maintenance transparency report
- Maintaining an up-to-date asset management policy and strategy
- Meeting minimum spending requirements
- Demonstrating ongoing professional development
For the full criteria and guidance, please see the DfT letter to Chief Executives dated 13 April 2026.
Through our Transparency Reporting Collaboration Group, LCRIG is actively supporting authorities to interpret these requirements consistently, share best practice, and strengthen their submissions.
Structures Funding: Next Steps
The £1 billion structures package is designed to support the renewal of vital infrastructure such as bridges, flyovers, and tunnels.
Local authorities are encouraged to submit draft applications by 19 June for early feedback, ahead of the final deadline of 3 August 2026. Additional webinars throughout April and May will provide further guidance.
Kerry Winstanley, Managing Director at LCRIG, said:
“LCRIG plays a vital role in bringing the sector together and supporting the Department for Transport in engaging directly with local authorities. Our ability to connect with every English highway authority means we can quickly share information, support understanding, and enable collaboration across the sector. We were particularly pleased to support DfT in delivering this latest webinar and to provide a platform for such significant funding announcements.”
By facilitating shared learning, supporting consistent interpretation of requirements, and feeding collective insight between authorities and DfT, LCRIG continues to strengthen the sector’s ability to respond to funding opportunities and deliver for communities.
If you would like more information on the Transparency Reporting Collaboration Group or LCRIG’s wider support, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.