16 May 2016

A host of Highways England schemes have been recognised for their contribution to improving the image of construction, with one clinching a top accolade and being praised for.

The A556 Knutsford to Bowdon improvement scheme was awarded the top prize of Most Considerate Site at this year’s Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) National Site Awards. It was praised for 'taking considerate construction to a new level'.

The M1 smart motorway was named a runner-up to Most Considerate Site, both within the category of sites with a project value of £10m and over.

Both are schemes being delivered by Costain on behalf of Highways England.

The annual awards recognise the highest levels of consideration and care shown by sites registered with the Considerate Constructors Scheme towards their local neighbourhoods, the general public, their workforce and the environment. They are judged by Scheme Monitors visiting the site and rating their considerate performance against the Code of Considerate Practice.

The A556 is a prominent route linking north Cheshire and south Manchester and is part of government’s commitment to deliver a Northern Powerhouse. The construction of a modern dual carriageway between Knutsford and Bowdon will benefit drivers who use it daily as well as surrounding communities who also stand to gain from improved facilities for pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders.

Awarding the top honour the judges praised the A556 project for the way "every aspect of the work visible to the general public portrayed professionalism. Engagement with the communities in the area was made to good effect, and the range of initiatives will undoubtedly impact positively. Environmental performance, too, was of the highest standard, confirming a very positive impression of sustainable construction on those affected by the works."

Jeremy Bloom, Highways England’s Regional Investment Programme Director said:

“We’re delighted that the judges have recognised the contribution we are making and that they chose to award the A556 with the top accolade.

“We and our suppliers are committed to making sure that all of the schemes we deliver improve not only provide a safe and smooth journey for drivers that use them every day but also improve the quality of life for local communities who interact or live near them as well.”

Project Manager for Costain, Rachel Ellison said:

"It is a fantastic accomplishment and recognises the phenomenal effort and dedication from the whole project team from the client to the supply chain.

“As a team we are all committed to the Code of Considerate practice and look to not only minimise the impact of our works on the local communities but to enhance our surroundings and leave a positive lasting legacy.”

Edward Hardy, Chief Executive of the Considerate Constructors Scheme, said:

“The A556 Knutsford to Bowdon Improvement Scheme has shown truly exceptional performance, making tremendous efforts in going way above and beyond compliance with the Scheme – taking considerate construction to a new level.

“It is a beacon of best practice for improving the image of the construction industry, working with enthusiasm and dedication to ensure that it showcases the very best of the construction industry, helping to make construction a more attractive career choice.”

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