The Department for Transport has opened a consultation on a draft update to the Safety at Street Works and Road Works code of practice, commonly known as the Red Book.
The proposed code would provide statutory guidance on the signing, lighting and guarding of street and road works on public roads and highways. Its stated purpose is to help protect road workers, pedestrians and other road users.
Changes to pedestrian and cycle access
The draft includes revised requirements for maintaining safe, accessible pedestrian routes around works. These cover minimum footway widths, the length of time restricted widths can remain in place and improved standards for temporary walkways.
It also updates guidance for cycle routes affected by roadworks, including a clearer hierarchy of options for managing diversions and maintaining access. The proposals introduce definitions for ‘hard’ and ‘soft’ closures and strengthen requirements relating to disabled people and other vulnerable road users.
Wider technical changes
The consultation draft contains updated diagrams and technical material, as well as expanded guidance on mobile and short-duration works. It also addresses work near level crossings and tramways.
The Department for Transport said the language has been revised to better reflect underlying legal duties and to distinguish mandatory requirements from advisory guidance.
The draft was developed jointly by the Department for Transport, Transport Scotland, the Welsh Government and the Department for Infrastructure in Northern Ireland. Arup and AECOM supported the redrafting, which also drew on work by representatives of the Highway Authorities and Utilities Committee safety working group.
Consultants advised on updates needed to reflect current health and safety legislation, inclusive mobility, the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions and Chapter 8 of the Traffic Signs Manual.
The consultation closes on 14 December 2026.