National Highways Water Quality Priority Locations (2030 Water Quality Plan)

Overview This dataset contains information on drainage outfalls and soakaways across the National Highways strategic road network that may pose a risk to the water environment. It has been developed as part of the National Highways 2030 Water Quality Plan, which aims to prevent pollution from highway run‑off and improve water quality in both surface waters and groundwater. The dataset includes locations initially assessed as potentially high risk, along with the results of subsequent validation and verification work completed in February 2025, and the confirmed high‑priority sites published in October 2025. Background National Highways manages England’s motorways and major A‑roads, representing approximately 3% of the national road network but carrying: One third of all traffic, Two thirds of all freight Run‑off from these roads can contain contaminants such as sediments, hydrocarbons, and microplastics generated through: Tyre, brake, and road surface wear Vehicle corrosion Oil, fuel and lubricants Atmospheric deposition Without intervention, these pollutants can impact rivers, canals, lakes, groundwater, and wider ecosystems. Purpose of the Dataset This dataset supports National Highways’ commitment to manage road run‑off responsibly and improve water quality by: Identifying drainage assets that may pose a pollution risk Prioritising sites requiring further assessment or treatment Supporting design and delivery of mitigation measures Providing transparency for stakeholders and partners It underpins planning and decision-making for nature-based and engineered water quality solutions, including wetlands, filter drains, and vortex separators. Dataset Contents Depending on your specific dataset structure, this typically includes: Asset Reference Number Asset Type Road Name Nearest Waterbody Original Scope or added to Scope WQP Mitigation