Bracknell Forest Commits Record £7.7m Investment in Highways Improvements

Bracknell Forest Council has approved plans to invest more than £7.7 million in its highways network during the 2026/27 financial year, marking the highest level of funding allocated to date.

The programme, agreed by cabinet members, sets out a range of works aimed at improving roads, pavements, bridges and cycle infrastructure, while also enhancing safety and supporting more sustainable travel options.

A significant portion of the funding—£5.4 million—will be directed towards resurfacing and structural treatments to improve the overall condition of the network. The need for this work has increased following a challenging winter, with persistent rainfall and freezing conditions accelerating deterioration and leading to more potholes and surface damage.

Highways teams have already responded by carrying out a higher volume of repairs than in previous years, prioritising defects based on risk and severity. This work will continue into the spring.

Several key routes are set to benefit from resurfacing and upgrades, including sections of the A329 Berkshire Way, A321 Wokingham Road, B3430 Nine Mile Ride, A330 Kingscroft Lane and A3095 Mill Lane, covering both residential and major roads across the borough.

Alongside maintenance, the programme includes a range of schemes to promote safer and more sustainable travel. Planned improvements include new pedestrian and cycle crossings, reduced speed limits near schools, and enhanced footpath links to public transport.

Additional measures will focus on improving traffic flow and safety at key locations, such as junction upgrades and crossing improvements across the borough. Wider road safety initiatives will also be introduced to help manage speeds and reduce collisions.

The investment package also includes £220,000 for drainage improvements and £580,000 to repair and upgrade street lighting infrastructure.

Councillor Guy Gillbe, cabinet member for planning, transport and countryside, said the funding represents a major commitment to maintaining and improving the borough’s highways. He acknowledged that while the investment will deliver significant improvements, it cannot address every issue, with ongoing prioritisation required due to the scale of the network and increasing wear from severe weather.

He added that continued investment in resurfacing is already showing positive results, with road condition data indicating that Bracknell Forest’s network compares favourably with many other areas.