The Department for Transport (DfT) has published new research that sets out how the resilience of the UK's transport network to climate change can be measured more effectively, marking an important step in strengthening the evidence needed to support long-term adaptation planning. 

Measuring the transport network's resilience to climate change brings together findings from a three-part research programme examining how weather and climate change affect transport infrastructure, what data and indicators already exist, and where significant evidence gaps remain. 

The research identifies the need for a more consistent set of metrics to assess how transport networks perform during and recover from climate-related events such as flooding, heatwaves, storms and coastal erosion. While considerable data is already collected across different transport modes, the report concludes that there is currently no comprehensive framework for measuring resilience across the transport system as a whole. 

The final report presents a sector-level roadmap, recommending the development of common resilience metrics, improved data collection and greater coordination across transport organisations. It also highlights the importance of understanding the interdependencies between transport and other critical infrastructure sectors, such as energy and telecommunications, when assessing resilience. 

CIHT welcomes the new research, as it reinforces the growing importance of embedding climate adaptation into asset management, investment planning and network operations. As climate risks become more frequent and severe, having consistent measures of resilience will help organisations prioritise interventions, monitor progress and demonstrate the effectiveness of adaptation measures. Read more in CIHT's CLIMATES report.

The publication supports the delivery of the DfT's Climate Adaptation Strategy for Transport, which committed to strengthening the evidence base for climate resilience and developing improved data and monitoring capabilities across the transport sector. Together, these initiatives aim to ensure transport networks remain safe, reliable and resilient in the face of a changing climate. 

CIHT has consistently highlighted the importance of climate resilience as a core element of transport planning, design, maintenance and operation. Join CIHT for a webinar on 21 July 2026 for an introduction to a new suite of guidance to support Local Highways Authorities in adapting to, preparing for and responding to flooding, extreme heat and other climate hazards.  

Read the full DfT research here.