Traffic Signs Manual, Chapter 8
The Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 is an important document that advises how road works and temporary traffic management can meet legal requirements and industry best practice.
Chapter 8 is used across England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. It is a vital document that supports the work of authorities, contractors, and others involved in temporary traffic management.
Our responsibilities to Chapter 8
We are responsible for maintaining and updating the document on behalf of the Department for Transport.
In 2026, the latest version of the Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 will be published. Whereas Chapter 8 is currently split into three parts, this version consolidates the best practice for temporary traffic management into one unified document.
Use the button below to access the latest version of the Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8 from the GOV.UK website. All chapters of the manual, including Chapter 8, may be purchased in hard copy format from The Stationary Office.
What's changed?
We are committed to continuously improving how we work and deliver for our customers and people working in the roads sector. As part of this commitment, we have created an opportunity for you to submit suggested changes to Chapter 8. By opening up submissions, we can consider new voices and learn from the knowledge and experience across the sector. These four phases explain how your submission can grow through the change control process:
- Phase 1: Start the process by completing our simple submission form. Once we’ve received it, we’ll be in touch to explain how you can share the information and documents we need.
- Phase 2: The Review Panel will look at the submission and any related information. They’ll then recommend whether the change should be added to Chapter 8.
- Phase 3: If the recommendation is to accept, our Steering Group (formed of representatives from across the industry), will reach a final decision on the submission.
- Phase 4: Any approved changes will be added to Chapter 8 and included in the next published version.
How can I send my submission?
We intend to open the submissions form shortly after the republication of Chapter 8. This is expected to take place in November 2026.
Ahead of the submission form opening, we have made the guidance available through the link below.
To help you plan ahead, please take note of the following expected deadlines
- Category A and B Submissions – March 2027.
- Category C Submissions – June 2027.
We're here to help!
If you have any questions relating to the Traffic Signs Manual Chapter 8, please get in touch with the Chapter 8 team.
