Rain flowing from roads contains oils, suspended solids from tyres and metals from brakes. In its Water Quality Plan, National Highways has committed to address its most impactful discharges from the Strategic Road Network by 2030.
Under the new contract, WSP will lead as National Highways’ technical partner, supported by Mott MacDonald, Ramboll, Arup and Aecom, providing programme leadership, technical assurance and delivery support. The project will identify and deliver designs to treat water running from the highest risk outfalls on the strategic road network. Treatment will include either nature based solutions or mechanical approaches delivered within the existing road boundary.
Working closely with National Highways, WSP will support the development of a long‑term, evidence‑led approach to water quality, ensuring interventions are targeted, proportionate and aligned with wider environmental goals. WSP has been technical partner on the programme since 2024.
Stephen Elderkin, director of environmental sustainability at National Highways, said: “We are committed to addressing the risk of pollution from road run-off. Alongside publishing a list of areas which require mitigation, a new national programme for improving water quality on our roads has now been established to tackle this important issue. Our continued relationship with WSP stands us in good stead as we continue making significant progress towards meeting the aims of our Water Quality Plan 2030. We look forward to working with them again to support positive environmental outcomes.”
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