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Beyond Potholes: Lilian Greenwood On How Tech, Policy And Prevention Will Reshape The Uk’S Roads

road-bridge

Mar 26, 2025

Highway News

Highway News

Are potholes just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the real issues facing our roads?

If you’re in the business of managing, maintaining, or modernising highways, you already know that reactive repairs are expensive, inefficient, and deeply unpopular. In this episode of Highways Voices, Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood (pictured, with Highways News co-owner Adrian Tatum) lays out how government and industry must work together to shift from short-term fixes to long-term, tech-powered strategies that deliver value and resilience.

Subscribe to Highways Voices free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts or Pocket Casts and never miss an episode!

In this episode you will learn the Minister’s views on:

Tap play now to hear how your organisation can align with the government’s vision and be part of transforming the UK’s highway future.

Highways Voices is brought to you with our partners the Transport Technology Forum, LCRIG, ADEPT and ITS UK.

(Picture – Highways News)

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New Civil Engineer (Road)

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Options Considered – And Ruled Out – For Hammersmith Bridge Future

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Durham Pcc Commits To Safer Roads With Raft Of Initiatives

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Lower Thames Crossing Partners Hail Pivotal Decision On Road To GrowthCascade, the Technical Partner on the Lower Thames Crossing and who supported development of the Development Consent Order, have issued a statement regarding the Government’s decision earlier this week. “We are delighted that the Lower Thames Crossing has received planning permission from the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP on Tuesday 25 March. This pivotal decision marks a significant step forward in the government’s Plan for Change, to drive growth and enhance connectivity and infrastructure in the region. “Jacobs, Arcadis, and COWI are proud to be contributing to National Highways vision for the Lower Thames Crossing. Together, we’ve played a key role in bringing this project to life – ensuring communities and stakeholders have a voice in shaping its future. As a pathfinder, the Lower Thames Crossing is looking for ways to accelerate change across construction. Our people have brought their expertise and passion to help National Highways fundamentally changing how we deliver strategically important infrastructure in the UK. “It will alleviate the decades-long congestion that has acted as a handbrake on local growth and create significant opportunities for jobs and skills development within the local communities. “We extend our thanks to all stakeholders involved in this process, and we look forward to the continued partnership with the government, local authorities, and communities as we embark on this exciting journey toward a more connected future.” Kate Kenny, Executive Vice President Europe for Jacobs, said, “The news that the government has given the Lower Thames Crossing the green light is a huge moment for the region and the UK. This ambitious project will not only transform journeys and tackle long-standing barriers to opportunity, but will drive economic growth in a way that restores nature and leaves a legacy of local jobs and skills. We’re immensely proud of our role helping National Highways create a new modern blueprint for building inclusive, low-carbon projects, and look forward to supporting it as it moves into delivery.” Paul Dennett, Arcadis Mobility Director UK & Ireland, said “This is a hugely significant milestone for this major project that has seen the very best of public and private sector collaboration to deliver on a scheme that has the potential to kickstart major economic growth. “I am immensely proud of the expertise, dedication and commitment of our team, and the wide range of professional services we have provided, in order to get this Development Consent Order decision over the line. We look forward to continuing to work on Lower Thames Crossing as the project now moves into the delivery phase.” Andy Sloan, Managing Director, COWI in the UK & Ireland said, “The Lower Thames Crossing is a transformative project that will enhance connectivity and provide much needed capacity for road users, across the Thames east of London, while establishing a new standard for sustainable infrastructure development in the UK. “Investment into infrastructure, like the Lower Thames Crossing, are essential for unlocking the UK’s economic potential. By enhancing transport networks, promoting sustainable energy and improving infrastructure, we can foster innovation and create jobs, paving the way for a prosperous future that benefits communities across the UK. This decision comes after a rigorous examination from independent experts and I am extremely proud of our team who have worked tirelessly over the years to reach this momentous day.” (Pic: National Highways)

Clearview Intelligence Solarlite Road Stud Wins Live Labs “Dragons’ Den”

Clearview Intelligence Solarlite Road Stud Wins Live Labs “Dragons’ Den”A solar-powered road stud solution being used in the East Riding of Yorkshire to reduce emissions from streetlighting has won a “Dragons’ Den”-style pitching session at the ADEPT Live Labs 2 expo. The Clearview Intelligence SolarLite solution uses solar powered illuminated road studs to provide Lane delineation to examine how they can be used instead of streetlighting, cutting carbon and light pollution while maintaining safety. “We truly feel this is a transformative solution to change the way we light our roads whilst ensuring safety runs through the veins of our decarbonising agenda,” commented Head of Business Development Ralph Bates. “Extended thanks to our Live Labs project team headed up by Karl Rourke and John Lamb for believing in this solution and helping us take things to the next level.” The solution was chosen among a range of Net Zero-focussed solutions presented at the meeting in Liverpool to ‘Dragons’ Rupert Furness, Deputy Director, Local Highways and Active Travel at the Department for Transport, Angela Halliwell, Head of Carbon and Air Quality Group at National Highways, and Mike Batheram, Market Director for Local Transport from Atkins Réalis. “This project is already receiving early recognition, with a view to be setting a new standard for lighting design and supporting the DfT with a step change in the normalisation and uptake of low carbon solutions,” Ralph Bates continued. “Local residents to the test beds in East Riding of Yorkshire have already provided overwhelmingly positive feedback and encourage the replacement of traditional lighting columns with this new low carbon delineation solution which gives them back their dark skies and maintains/improves road safety. “Rather than local authorities designing in swathes of street lighting on new road developments, because that’s what they’ve always done, they can actually now be better informed. We can show that there’s a better way of doing things with huge carbon savings as well as huge financial savings.” You can view the slides from Ralph Bates’ presentation here. (Picture – ADEPT)

92T Span Of New Footbridge Installed For £14.5M Eaglescliffe Station Upgrade

New Civil Engineer (Bridge)

92T Span Of New Footbridge Installed For £14.5M Eaglescliffe Station UpgradeThe revamped Eaglescliffe station in County Durham has seen the 92t span of its new footbridge lifted into place in a three-hour operation. The installation, carried out by a team of 15 staff from contractor Bam, marks a key milestone in an ongoing £14.5M project to overhaul the station on the Tees Valley Line. The newly installed steel structure, measuring 56m in length, is designed to enhance accessibility for passengers. It will include three lifts that will connect both the existing car park and a newly constructed car park to the station’s island platform. Funding for the project has been sourced from multiple channels: £9.2M from the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA), £3.25M from Network Rail and £2M from the Department for Transport. This financial backing is aimed at addressing long-standing access issues at Eaglescliffe and aims to revitalise the station experience for users. During the renovation, the existing footbridge will be kept in place to ensure continuous access to the station, providing an essential emergency exit as construction progresses. In addition, Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is spearheading the development of a new car park to the west of the station. This initiative also includes improvements to cycle and pedestrian access, further enhancing connectivity for those travelling to and from Eaglescliffe. This project receives additional support from the government’s City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement, allocations from the Levelling Up Fund for Stockton South, and the Indigenous Growth Fund secured by the local authority. The station improvements represent a broader commitment to modernise transport infrastructure and improve accessibility across the region. Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “This lift marks a big milestone on getting this project completed and ready. Eaglescliffe offers a crucial link to major stations south of us and its access has been below par for far too long. “It’s great to see steel going in the ground and the project now taking shape – and it’s also pleasing to have our friends at Stockton Council getting on with their side of the job and getting the new car park sorted. “Ultimately, this project and the work going on around the station will make things better and simpler for people working at fantastic firms on Durham Lane Industrial Estate – and for everyone who wants to use Eaglescliffe for travel. “We’ve pumped the money in to get this done to ensure people across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool have the railway they deserve.” Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council leader and TVCA cabinet member Bob Cook said: “Eaglescliffe Station is an important transport link for the borough and the wider Tees Valley because of its connection with major stations up and down the country. “The new car park is located on part of the Durham Lane site purchased by the Council, and new cycleways will complement the wider improvements being made. “Working together, this will provide improvements which should be another draw to businesses looking to invest in Durham Lane Industrial Estate – and serve some of the vital international businesses we have on the site.” Network Rail North and East route principal programme sponsor Anna Weeks said: “This achievement marks an important milestone in improving accessibility at Eaglescliffe station. The bridge installation demonstrates our commitment to working collaboratively with partners to deliver better passenger facilities. “We’re proud to invest significantly in this vital project that will transform the travel experience, creating a more inclusive railway network for everyone in the Tees Valley region.” Like what you've read? To receive New Civil Engineer's daily and weekly newsletters click here.

Rotof 2025: Industry Leaders Gather To Shape The Future Of Road Tunnel Safety

Rotof 2025: Industry Leaders Gather To Shape The Future Of Road Tunnel SafetyThe 2025 Road Tunnel Operators Forum (RoTOF) took centre stage at Liverpool’s Titanic Hotel on 18-19 March, bringing together leading voices in tunnel safety, operations, and technology.Hosted by Dalkia, a recognised leader in road tunnel infrastructure, the two-day event provided a vital platform for experts, policymakers, and suppliers to explore the latest advancements shaping the future of tunnel management.With more than 20 major road tunnel refurbishments completed across the UK since 2010, Dalkia has played a key role in delivering large-scale infrastructure solutions, from LED lighting and fire suppression to ventilation and integrated tunnel control systems. Hosting RoTOF 2025 reinforced the company’s commitment to drivinginnovation, improving safety, and fostering industry-wide collaboration.Tackling Industry Challenges and InnovationsThe conference opened with a welcome address from Dalkia, followed by a deep dive into the company’s expertise, including a case study on its refurbishment of the recently Queensway Tunnel upgrade. This set the stage for a packed schedule of expert-led sessions featuring speakers from Atkins Realis, the Road TunnelAssociation, Signify, Liverpool City Region, and Zitron. Key topics included emerging safety regulations, smart technology integration, and sustainable infrastructure solutions.Lively Q&A discussions gave delegates the chance to engage directly with speakers, challenging conventional thinking and exploring practical solutions to the industry’s most pressing challenges. Meanwhile, the associated exhibition showcased some of the latest advancements in tunnel operations, with leading suppliers demonstrating cutting-edge innovations designed to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability.Shaping the Future of Tunnel OperationsDay two continued the momentum, with sessions featuring Mott MacDonald, Teledyne FLIR, Dublin Port Tunnel, PDS, and Codra, among others. One of the key moments of the day was an address from Dalkia UK’s CEO, who highlighted the company’s role in supporting road tunnel operators with solutions that enhancesafety, efficiency, and sustainability. The forum closed with updates from PIARC and ITA-COSUF, setting the industry’s agenda for the months ahead. The Verdict: A Resounding SuccessBy the time the final discussions wrapped up, one thing was clear – RoTOF 2025 was a resounding success. With industry leaders, technology pioneers, and key decision-makers coming together under one roof, the event reinforced its reputation as a must-attend forum for anyone invested in the future of road tunnel operations. (Pic: Dalkia Engineering/Jeff Evans)

Leicester: Latest Stage Of Narborough Road Highway Improvements To Begin

Leicester: Latest Stage Of Narborough Road Highway Improvements To BeginThe latest phase in a rolling programme of repairs and improvements to pavements and road surfaces along Narborough Road in Leicester will get under way this weekend. Leicester City Council is carrying out the works to spruce up public areas for local businesses and residents. The latest works focusing on the footways on the outbound section of Narborough Road between Norman Street and Equity Road, and on the inbound section between Cambridge Street and Westcotes Drive. The scheme will involve replacing broken paving slabs with concrete blocks, improving drainage to prevent water from pooling on the pavements, and placing water-permeable resin-bound gravel around the street trees. New bollards will also be installed, as well as new cycle racks, which will help stop vehicles parking on the pavement. The works, costing £350,000 and funded by the council’s Highways Maintenance Capital Budget, are due to begin on Sunday 30 March and will take around six months to complete. Waiting restrictions will be in place where work is taking place and some parking bays in nearby Paton Street will be out of use while they are used for storing essential equipment and materials. Investment in the area in recent years has already improved footways on the outbound side of Narborough Road, between its junctions with Norman Street and Briton Street and Ruding Road and Roman Street, along with the area between Upperton Road and Braunstone Gate. Cllr Geoff Whittle, assistant city mayor for environment and transport, said: “This rolling programme of works has hugely improved Narborough Road for local businesses, residents and visitors by upgrading footpaths, installing new street furniture and fixing drainage problems. “This latest scheme will continue to upgrade the area, helping to further improve the look and feel of the neighbourhood.” (Pic: Leicester City Council)

The Lasting Impact Of The Key Bridge Collapse

roads & bridges

The Lasting Impact Of The Key Bridge CollapseYesterday marks one year since the catastrophic collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. The tragic event, caused by the Dali cargo ship crashing into the structure, claimed the lives of six construction workers and left a lasting imprint on the region. While the wreckage was swiftly removed and port operations resumed within months, the disruption to daily life continues to be deeply felt. For many residents, the absence of the Key Bridge has reshaped how they navigate their daily routines, according to a report from WTOP News. Commuters have faced increased congestion in the Fort McHenry and Baltimore Harbor tunnels, with traffic volume up by 15% and 7%, respectively, according to the report. Peak-hour travel times have increased by up to 25 minutes, forcing many to plan their trips around the gridlock. The added fuel costs, longer hours on the road and increased vehicle wear have taken a toll, particularly on truck drivers who relied on the bridge for swift transport. Beyond the logistical hardships, the bridge collapse has had lasting emotional consequences. In the wake of the disaster, artist Roberto Marquez created a memorial along Fort Smallwood Road to honor the six workers who lost their lives, according to a report from CBS. Families of the victims, community members and even visitors from outside Baltimore have stopped to pay their respects, leaving flowers, notes and other tributes at the site. Meanwhile, the Baltimore Museum of Industry is working to preserve the bridge’s legacy with a dedicated exhibit set to open in 2027. The museum has secured a grant to fund part of the project and continues to raise additional resources to ensure the exhibit captures the full historical and emotional weight of the collapse. Currently, plans for the new Key Bridge are moving forward, with state and federal officials working on designs that will improve traffic flow and enhance structural integrity. Funding has been allocated for the project, and preliminary construction efforts, including site preparation and environmental assessments, are already underway. Source: WTOP News, CBS News

M49 Link Road Lighting Upgrade Completed

M49 Link Road Lighting Upgrade CompletedCU Phosco, in partnership with Mway Comms, has successfully upgraded the lighting along the M49 link road in Gloucestershire, replacing outdated SON lighting with advanced P862 LED luminaires. This project, initiated by National Highways, is part of a £126m Nationwide Project aimed at significantly improving energy efficiency, safety, and greatly decreasing the CO2 footprint of the road lighting in accordance with the current National Highways drive lower CO2 emissions. Unique in that it is only accessible from other motorways, the M49 motorway is a critical route in England, linking the M4 (J22) with the M5 (J18A). Constructed alongside the Prince of Wales Bridge in 1996, the M49 provides essential connectivity for motorists between the outskirts of Avonmouth and South Wales. Due to its importance in facilitating regional travel, National Highways sought to modernise the road’s lighting to reduce maintenance costs and improve energy efficiency.In 2019, National Highways Area 1/2 engaged CU Phosco to design a comprehensive lighting solution for the M49 link road. This project, spanning the 5-mile stretch between the M4 and M5, aimed to replace ageing SON lighting with modern, energy-efficient alternatives. Although delayed due to cable infrastructure challenges, the lighting redesign was completed in 2023, allowing CU Phosco to partner with Mway Comms for installation.CU Phosco worked closely with National Highways and Mway Comms to deliver a solution to optimise safety and efficiency along the M49. A total of 255 P862 LED luminaires with ANSI Nema sockets to accommodate the Lucy Zodion CMS were installed, replacing the outdated SON stock. The P862 luminaire, known for its superior optical performance and thermal management, was chosen for its ability to meet National Highways’ strict specifications and supplied, including safety Tether kits.The P862’s dark sky certification ensures minimal light pollution, while its lightweight design and low wind profile made it ideal for installation on existing lighting columns. This project utilised various outputs and bespoke hybrid optics to complement its future-proof design, offering an optimal balance of efficiency, longevity, and performance. The new LED lighting system significantly enhanced visibility and safety along the M49 while also delivering substantial energy savings, helping to align with National Highways’ sustainability goals. Stuart Griffin, Contracts Manager, Mway Comms comments, “Mway Comms and CU Phosco have worked closely to deliver this lighting scheme. Early supplier involvement ensured that all lanterns were delivered in advance of the planned install date to allow for detailed planning to be undertaken, in what has turned out to be a very busy section of the national motorway system. Other major projects in the vicinity, that were utilising the M49 as part of their diversion route restricted the access for installation, but with all 350 lanterns available from the start, works could be rescheduled at short notice to minimise time lost to cancelled road space.” (Pic: CU Phosco)

‘Uproar’ Over Bridge That Has Been Closed To Traffic For Seven Years

‘Uproar’ Over Bridge That Has Been Closed To Traffic For Seven YearsA bridge owned by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in Wales has been closed to traffic for seven years due to safety worries and there is no sign of it reopening any time soon. Inglis Bridge in Monmouth connects the Osbaston estate to the west of Monmouth and in recent years has only been open to pedestrians. But even walkers can no longer use the bridge now because of structural worries. The MoD owns the bridge because it was designed by Charles Edward Inglis, the director of the bridging department of the Royal Engineers, during World War I, and the bridge is a type of military bridge, says Wales Online. The listed structure was closed to vehicles in 2018 but remained open to walkers and cyclists until last year before it was deemed completely unsafe for any public use. For many – including children and their parents at the Church in Wales Osbaston School – it means a more than one-mile detour. Labour MP for Monmouthshire Catherine Fookes said an alternative, even if a temporary and cheaper solution, needs to be found. “The closure of Inglis Bridge has caused significant disruption for residents in Osbaston – including families, schoolchildren, people with disabilities, cyclists and dog walkers,” she said. “I’ve raised this issue with the Ministry of Defence at every opportunity and have been pushing hard for a solution that works for the whole community. While a full refurbishment may be expensive, we have been looking into the prospect of a simpler pedestrian only alternative, which families at Osbaston School have overwhelmingly supported. As we wait to hear back with an update from the MoD, I will continue to do everything I can to make sure this vital route is reopened as soon as possible.” (Pic: Wikipedia)