Three major highways schemes in Staffordshire have been recognised by the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) for their quality of design and for helping enable future economic growth.
The projects were: work to improve the the centre of Newcastle-under-Lyme for pedestrians and cyclists; creating the gateway to the new Branston Locks business and housing development near Burton; and building a new 56 metre pedestrian and cycle steel rail bridge to access a new housing development in Tamworth. They were carried out with the council's partner, Amey
In Newcastle, the highways team worked with Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council and sustainable transport charity Sustrans to create a scheme in High Street and Hassell Street.
At Branston Locks, the team created the gateway to new multi-use developments by realigning Branston Road and building a new canal bridge.
The road is designed pave the way for multi-million pound investment in the site, which will include 2,500 houses, 50-acre employment site, a primary and secondary school and community and recreational facilities.
The Tamworth project has seen the creation and installation of a 56-metre pedestrian and cycle bridge over the Birmingham to Derby railway. It involved close working between the team, the housing developer and Network Rail.
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet support member for highways and transport, Helen Fisher, said: 'These three projects which have been recognised by the industry are all different but have all involves complex design, intricate planning and close partnership working – with a range of organisations and with local communities.
'The finished schemes ensure there is safe and suitable access to new and existing development and have literally paved the way for future growth.'
Richard Harris, account director for Amey in Staffordshire, added: 'I’m incredibly proud of the highways teams who work tirelessly to deliver highways improvement projects across Staffordshire, and to be recognised by the Institute of Highways Engineers for all three projects is a real achievement.
'Each project has supported greater investment into the county and demonstrates how our local roads contribute towards the growth and wellbeing of our local communities.
The awards were presented at an event by the Institute of Highway Engineers (Mercian branch) on 26 April.
