Document updates
Welcome to Standards for Highways
The Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW) has been modernised and republished in September 2025 to embed quality, improve contract preparation and enable future construction practices. Key changes include: a new document set structure, a new consistent clause style, dedicated country-specific versions, new templates to replace contract specific appendices, technical updates to reflect industry practice and updates to the DMRB. Essential guidance to support the transition to the updated MCHW is available on the MCHW Information hub. Please note this link will open an external website.
Webinars will be hosted to mark the publication of the updated MCHW. Register here:
- 22 Oct 1100-1200 BST registration link (SOLD OUT)
- 22 Oct 1400–1500 BST registration link (NEW)
- 13 Nov 1100-1200 BST registration link
- 29 Jan 1100-1200 BST registration link
Standards
Requirements and advice documents relating to works on motorway and all-purpose trunk roads in the UK.
View indexSuite of specification documents included in a construction contract relating to works on motorway and all-purpose trunk roads in the UK.
View indexOperational Technology Specification Library relating to works on motorway and all-purpose trunk roads in the UK. (Formerly TSS).
Interim Advice Notes historically issued by National Highways relating to works on motorways and all-purpose trunk roads in England.
Latest news
Sept 2025: The Standards for Highways website has been updated in conjunction with the launch of the updated MCHW
Have you got an idea, or a challenge to our standards?
If you would like to give feedback on one of our Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) or Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW) standards, please use our feedback form.