North Northamptonshire’s Updated Network Management Plan - Keeping Our Roads Moving
13 January 2026
North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive will discuss the authority’s updated Network Management Plan at a meeting next week – a guide for how the council looks after and manages the roads and paths used by residents every day.
The plan explains what the authority does to keep traffic moving safely and efficiently, reduce disruption, and make sure the highway network in North Northamptonshire works for everyone - whether they drive, cycle, walk, or use public transport.
North Northamptonshire is growing fast, with new homes and businesses creating extra pressure on the roads. At the same time, budgets are tight, so the council needs to make smart choices about where and how it invests in the highway network.
What is included:
- Coordinating works and activities – so roadworks cause less disruption and journeys are more reliable.
- Managing congestion – tackling problem areas and planning for growth.
- Supporting sustainable travel – making walking, cycling, and public transport easier.
- Integrated approach – as a unitary authority, the council can join up services and manage the network more efficiently.
- Stronger enforcement – dealing with obstructions and keeping roads and pavements clear and safe.
- Planning for EV charging – making sure charging points are in the right places.
- Linked to asset management – so decisions around maintenance and improvements are based on good data and long-term value.
We know how important a well-managed road network is for day-to-day life, for business growth and for the health and wellbeing of our communities.Cllr Chris McGiffen, Executive Member for Highways and Travel
This plan is about being smart with the resources we have - coordinating works to minimise disruption, using data to make better decisions, and investing where it delivers the greatest benefit.
North Northamptonshire is growing, and that is a great opportunity. Our updated approach helps us keep people moving safely, support new homes and jobs, and accelerate more sustainable travel choices, while being realistic about the pressures we face.
Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council, supports the recommendation to Executive and noted the government’s new Road Maintenance Ratings.
The government’s new ‘traffic light’ system of assessing the state of highways networks doesn’t point out the severe lack of investment nationally over the past three decades.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council
In North Northants we’re committed to making the most of the limited funds we have to do the best job we can with our highways. This is very much a corporate priority for us – a robust network is the cornerstone of prosperity and community.
The updated plan replaces the old Northamptonshire County Council version and reflects the move to North Northamptonshire Council. It sets out a clear, integrated approach to managing the entire highway network – ensuring it remains safe, reliable, and resilient for the future.