S30128 Asset delivery asset maintenance (GM701) & inspection (GS801) update

The Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) standards GM 701 (Asset Maintenance Requirements) and GS 801 (Asset Inspection Requirements) are safety-critical components underpinning the safe and reliable operation of the strategic road network, ensuring that asset condition, performance, and associated risks are effectively managed. This commission will maintain, enhance, and assure these standards to ensure they remain fit for purpose, aligned to evolving requirements, and consistently applied across all asset delivery regions.

The work will deliver a risk-based approach to inspections through the development and embedment of GS 801, alongside updating GM 701 to align with current specifications and maintenance requirements, ensuring that interventions are proportionate to asset risk and condition. It will also provide ongoing continuous improvement of both standards, independent check and challenge of maintenance and inspection plans, and expert technical advice to support their application in practice.

Critically, the commission will ensure the transfer of essential knowledge to the future network owner, safeguarding continuity of safety-critical processes. Without this activity, there is a material risk of inconsistent practices, reduced ability to identify and mitigate asset-related safety risks, and deterioration in network safety and reliability for users.