Understanding the National Highways and Transport Network (NHT)

The National Highways and Transport (NHT) Network is a subscription-based benchmarking and service improvement initiative designed specifically for local authorities. By bringing together councils from across the UK, the NHT provides a trusted, evidence-led approach to understanding performance, engaging residents, and identifying opportunities for improvement in highways and transport services.

What the NHT Offers Councils

Membership of the NHT gives local authorities access to:

  • Comprehensive benchmarking data covering highways maintenance, road safety, accessibility, public transport, active travel and environmental impact.

  • National and regional comparisons to see how your authority performs against similar councils.

  • Resident satisfaction surveys that provide an independent measure of public opinion.

  • Tailored tools and reports that translate data into practical insights for decision-making.

Turning Data into Action

With increasing pressure on budgets, resources and performance targets, having robust evidence is critical. The NHT enables councils to:

  • Benchmark performance against peers to identify strengths and areas for development.

  • Prioritise investment based on resident feedback and comparative analysis.

  • Support funding bids with objective data that strengthens business cases.

  • Inform policy and strategy with a national perspective on transport and highways issues.

  • Drive service improvement by learning from best practice and innovation across the network.

Why Councils Join the NHT

For councils, the benefits of NHT membership extend beyond data access. It provides a collaborative environment where local authorities can share knowledge, exchange ideas and collectively raise the standard of highways and transport provision.

By joining the NHT, councils can:

  • Gain greater insight into resident expectations.

  • Improve transparency with councillors, stakeholders and the public.

  • Build a clear evidence base to support difficult decisions.

  • Demonstrate continuous improvement over time.

Shaping Better Transport Services Together

The NHT Network equips councils with the tools and insights needed to make more informed decisions, balance competing priorities, and deliver services that residents value. As challenges in highways and transport continue to evolve, the NHT provides a vital platform for councils to collaborate, learn and improve — ultimately ensuring safer, more efficient and sustainable transport networks across the UK.

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