Section 278 agreement

Section 278 of the Highways Act 1980 enables Highway Authorities to facilitate works, within an existing public highway, commissioned by developers.

Apply for a Section 278 agreement

To request an application form, please email [email protected].

Please ensure:

• you have obtained detailed planning permission for the site
• you are able to provide payment of the audit fee by credit card (if you are not able to do so, you will be invoiced)
• you have provided an abortive costs letter
• you have read the Section 278 agreement guidance notes for developers

​What happens next

When you have submitted the form, please allow a minimum period of 3 weeks for initial review and 2 weeks for subsequent changes and submissions.

The average time is 3 to 4 months for an order to be processed, but each application will depend on how complex it is.

Last updated 25 October 2023