What’s new in the traffic management industry?
The traffic management (TM) industry is undergoing a period of rapid transformation. As we move through 2026, the focus has shifted sharply toward integrating digital innovation, enhancing operative safety, and meeting the ambitious targets set out in the government’s latest road safety strategy.
Whether you are a local authority officer, a high-speed TM contractor, or a safety professional, staying ahead of these trends is no longer optional, it is essential for operational excellence.
In this blog post, we explore the latest shifts in the industry and highlight an upcoming, must-attend event in March.
The Digital Revolution and Smart Roadworks
In 2026, the "digital twin" concept is finally hitting the tarmac at scale. We are seeing an increase in the use of real-time data to manage traffic flows around work zones. Digital permitting and automated road closure alerts are now standard, helping to reduce driver frustration and improve the accuracy of Sat-Nav data. For the traffic management industry, this means moving away from static plans and toward dynamic, data-driven deployments.
Safety through Technology
Safety remains the industry's North Star. Following the recent government mandate for 18 new vehicle safety technologies, we are seeing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) become integral to TM fleets. Furthermore, the industry is increasingly removing operatives from the "live side" of the road through automated cone-laying technology and remote-controlled signage.
The Push for Net-Zero and Sustainability
Decarbonising traffic management is high on the agenda for National Highways and local councils alike. From solar-powered variable message signs (VMS) to the widespread adoption of electric TM vehicles, the industry is proving that temporary traffic management doesn't have to leave a permanent footprint.
Spotlight: IHE Traffic Signs: Conference and Exhibition
If you want to get hands-on with these innovations, there is one date you need to clear in your diary: Tuesday, 24th March 2026.
The IHE (Institute of Highway Engineers) Traffic Signs: Conference and Exhibition is the UK’s premier event for anyone involved in the design, policy, and implementation of traffic signs and highway infrastructure. Hosted in Birmingham, this year's theme is 'Signs of Progress'.
Why attend?
Latest Policy Updates: get the inside track on the newest developments in highway engineering supported by the Department for Transport (DfT).
Expert Speakers: hear from government officials, local councils, and industry experts about the future of UK road signage and digital integration.
Innovation Showcase: the exhibition hall will feature the latest in retroreflective technology, digital signage, and intelligent mounting systems.
Networking: it is the best opportunity of the year to connect with decision-makers and discuss the challenges of managing the UK’s evolving road network.
The future is efficient: How ConeRQ can help
As the industry evolves, the tools we use to manage it must keep pace. While the IHE conference focuses on the signs themselves, the process of managing traffic orders, site surveys, and equipment remains a logistical challenge.
This is where ConeRQ steps in.
At ConeRQ, we provide cutting-edge solutions designed to streamline traffic management workflows. Our platform is built for the modern TM professional, offering:
Digital Job Tickets: create and assign tasks to operatives with real-time instructions and photos.
Automated Compliance: use digital forms for risk assessments and vehicle loading sheets to ensure audit readiness.
Fleet Management: track vehicle maintenance and assign assets to specific jobs with ease.
Real-time Visibility: move from reactive to proactive decision-making with a centralised, data-driven system.
Ready to modernise your traffic management process?
Don't get left behind in the digital shift. Discover how our field management platform can save you time, reduce errors, and keep your projects moving safely.
Book a demo with ConeRQ today and see how our traffic management software can strengthen your business.