When a development requires new access, an altered junction, or improvements to an existing public road, Section 278 works can become a critical part of the programme. Such intended works bring together local authority approvals, traffic management, drainage, utilities, kerbs and surfacing.
When handled during early-stage planning, the process can be coordinated with the wider build. Left too late, approvals and highway interfaces can delay access, sequencing and handover.
Understanding the full Section 278 scope
Highway changes need a coordinated delivery plan
A Section 278 agreement allows a developer to carry out permanent alterations or improvements to an existing public highway. The scope may include a new site entrance, junction changes, pedestrian crossings, footways, drainage connections, street lighting, signage, kerbing and resurfacing.
Each element must meet the adopting authority’s standards and align with the development programme. This is particularly important where new access is needed for construction traffic, or where highway completion is linked to occupation.
When to begin council liaison for Section 278 works
Design reviews and approvals take time
Local authority liaison should begin while the highway design is still being developed. Proactive discussions establish technical requirements, submission routes, inspection stages and local standards.
The council may request revisions around visibility, drainage, pedestrian movement or traffic safety. Allowing time for review reduces the risk of late changes affecting procurement or delivery. A clear point of contact also keeps comments, approvals and responsibilities organised.
Planning permits and road space
Applications to match the construction sequence
Section 278 works often require permits, licences and road space bookings before activity can begin. Lead times vary, and working windows may be limited by local restrictions or other nearby works.
Applications should reflect the construction sequence, including excavation, drainage, kerbing, surfacing and reinstatement. If dates change, bookings may need to be revised. Including those details in the main programme gives project managers a realistic view of when the highway package can start.
Coordinating traffic management
Safe access for workers, drivers and pedestrians
Traffic management must protect the workforce and the public while keeping the highway operational. The plan may include temporary signals, lane closures, pedestrian diversions, restricted working hours or phased access.
Controls need to suit the physical works and surrounding road network. The sequence should also consider deliveries, construction traffic and neighbouring access. Proactive coordination between the groundworks contractor, traffic management provider and local authority helps avoid clashes and supports safe delivery.
Managing drainage and utility interfaces
Below-ground coordination protects later stages
Highway changes frequently interact with drainage and utility services. New gullies, carrier drains and outfalls need to connect at suitable levels, while live gas, water, electric or communications services may require protection or diversion.
Survey information, trial holes and coordinated drawings help confirm routes and depths before excavation. Where diversions are required, provider lead times must be included. Linking Section 278 works with foul and surface water drainage and utility diversions reduces rework beneath completed kerbs or surfacing.
Delivering kerbs, levels and surfacing
Finished highway details rely on accurate preparation
Kerb lines, footway levels, carriageway build-ups, and surface falls must comply with the approved design. Small discrepancies can affect drainage, vehicle tracking, pedestrian access and the final tie-in.
Accurate setting out and formation preparation support consistent results through each layer. Inspection hold points should be agreed before materials are covered. Once the sub-base, drainage and kerbing are accepted, asphalt surfacing and external finishings can progress with clean joints and smooth transitions.
Keeping the works aligned with the programme
Sequencing protects access and handover dates
The highway package should form part of the main construction programme from the outset. Key dependencies may include temporary access, utility completion, drainage approval, inspections and final surfacing windows.
A detailed sequence identifies which activities can run together and which require approval before the next stage begins. It also creates clearer responsibility across designers, contractors, authorities and specialist suppliers. Regular progress reviews help resolve issues before they affect access or completion.
Bring highway requirements into the project conversation
N&G Groundworks manages Section 38 and 278 works across Dorset, Somerset and Devon, coordinating highway improvements with the wider groundworks package. Our team can support council liaison, traffic management planning, drainage interfaces, kerbing, surfacing and reinstatement.
An early conversation helps establish a workable scope, realistic lead times and a sequence that reflects site conditions. For developers, contractors and project managers, this creates greater control over a package that often sits directly on the critical path.
Posted on July 30th 2026
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