AtkinsRéalis is heading a review of the Well-managed Highway Infrastructure (WMHI) for the Department for Transport (DfT). The Code of Practice was last published in 2016 and is a document that guides highway authorities across the UK in the effective, risk-based management of their networks.
The appointment reinforces the company’s position as a trusted advisor on highways policy and infrastructure asset management. The code has to be updated due to the emergence of new technologies, evolving policy landscapes and shifts in stakeholder needs. The comprehensive will 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 refresh the Code’s content. It will 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’ appointment was made through the Specialist Professional and Technical Services Framework (SPaTS2), where AtkinsRéalis operates in joint venture with Jacobs.
