National Highways has faced criticism after it was revealed that the organisation spent more than £2.2 million on two separate public affairs teams performing overlapping roles between July 2024 and May 2026. Documents released in parliamentary answers show that the agency paid approximately £1.9 million to its in-house public affairs staff alongside an additional £280,921 on external consultants during the same period.

The arrangement, which has been described by some as wasteful, reportedly continues a contract first established under the Conservative government prior to the current Labour administration. Shadow Transport Minister Greg Smith condemned the situation as an example of excessive and inefficient management. He remarked that despite National Highways maintaining an internal public affairs team, it still engaged outside consultants, resulting in taxpayers footing a bill for two groups performing essentially the same functions. Smith also criticized the Department for Transport for apparently not questioning the duplication.

However, a Labour source rejected the accusations, accusing the Conservative Party of neglecting their own responsibility in setting up the contract. The source called the Tory criticism “an embarrassing level of amnesia” and dismissed it as an attempt to score political points by highlighting the government’s spending while ignoring their prior involvement. Labour emphasised its commitment to investing in transport infrastructure to improve everyday journeys.

The TaxPayers’ Alliance also weighed in, expressing concerns about the use of public funds amid existing frustrations over road conditions. Spokesperson William Yarwood commented that motorists facing traffic congestion and poor road maintenance might question why significant sums are being allocated to public affairs and communications rather than network improvements. He urged National Highways to prioritise cutting waste and focusing on core responsibilities.

In response, National Highways defended maintaining both teams, explaining that its external affairs contractors provide specialist support, insight, and event management while engaging directly with a broad range of regional and national stakeholders. The organisation maintained that the combined approach enhances its ability to communicate effectively across multiple levels.

The revelations come as road users continue to face challenges with traffic delays and road quality, prompting debate over the allocation of funds within transport authorities.