The two leading routes each achieved an overall satisfaction score of 79% in a Transport Focus survey covering more than 9,500 drivers in the year to March 2026. The M27 in Hampshire received just 56%, the lowest result among the motorways and major A roads managed by National Highways.
Across the South East, overall satisfaction with major roads rose to 72%, up from 66% in 2024/25 and slightly above the national average of 71%.
Drivers in the region also reported better management of roadworks. Satisfaction in this category increased from 42% to 52%, while road-surface ratings reached 70%, matching the national average. The score for feeling safe was higher, at 81%.
Transport Focus director Louise Collins said the results showed a marked improvement for users of some of the busiest roads in England. However, she added that the findings also identified areas requiring further attention as National Highways prepares a large programme of network renewals.
Collins said the roads agency now had an opportunity to build on the measures that were working while limiting disruption during future schemes.
M27 roadworks draw criticism
The 28-mile M27, which runs across Hampshire, has been affected by long-term resurfacing work and changes to junctions.
One driver surveyed described the roadworks as “terrible”, pointing to lower speed limits and narrow lanes while claiming that active work was rarely visible.
By contrast, the M20 shared first place despite its importance as a strategic freight corridor through Kent. The route carries traffic towards the Channel crossings, making its performance particularly relevant to international hauliers and logistics operators.
The A30, which links London with the South West and continues to Land’s End, matched the M20’s 79% rating.
Other highly rated roads included the M56 and M5, both on 78%, followed by the A19 and A23 on 77%. The M4 and A14 each scored 76%, while the A303 and M40 received 74%.
National Highways points to maintenance and incident response
National Highways said it aimed to maintain high safety standards while reducing disruption to road users.
A spokesperson said improvements to road conditions and incident-response times had contributed to better driver experiences. The agency also acknowledged the challenge posed by an ageing network and said continued maintenance was important for businesses and communities as well as motorists.
For road freight operators, the results underline the operational impact of road quality and roadworks management. Reliable journey times, safe surfaces and well-planned maintenance are especially important on routes used by HGVs, where prolonged restrictions can increase fuel consumption, driver hours and delivery uncertainty.
