The way England’s motorways and A-roads are built and managed is set for a transformational change after the government announced the ‘go-live’ of the Highways England.

Highways England is a new arms-length government company that will take over running motorways and major trunk roads from the Highways Agency on 1 April 2015.

The new company will have new longer-term funding, which will mean it can plan ahead and invest in skills and equipment to speed up essential work and drive down costs to the taxpayer.

The move is part of a radical package of road reform that is expected to save the taxpayer at least £2.6bn over the next ten years.

Transport Minister John Hayes said:

“This marks a significant way forward in how our strategic road network is delivered and managed.

“These reforms will mean the biggest, boldest and most far-reaching roads upgrade for decades. Ensuring we have well maintained roads and motorways is essential to a modern transport system that will boost our economy, create jobs and give more choice about where we live and work whilst delivering billions in savings.

“I am clear that government will set the strategy, gauge its implementation and direct necessary changes. Highways England will be answerable to Parliament, fully accountable for its work and will report to ministers.”