WILTSHIRE’S roads could soon be collecting national honours after two major transport projects were shortlisted for prestigious industry awards.
Wiltshire Council and its partners are in the running for two Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) awards, recognising work to make roads safer and tackle disruption caused by extreme weather.
One nomination focuses on the A3102 Safer Roads Scheme – a major 22-mile project aimed at cutting serious crashes on one of Wiltshire’s busiest routes.
The scheme, delivered with AtkinsRéalis, is one of the largest funded through the government’s Safer Roads Fund and is expected to prevent around 45 fatal and serious injuries over the next 20 years.
Rather than simply reacting to collisions, engineers used crash data to target danger hotspots and improve safety for drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.
The project has also trialled more sustainable materials.
Meanwhile, a second Wiltshire scheme has been shortlisted for helping roads better withstand severe weather.
Working with M Group, the council has introduced a risk-based drainage system designed to stop flooding before it happens – shifting maintenance from emergency call-outs to prevention.
The approach comes as storms and extreme weather become increasingly common.
Cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith said: “We’re pleased to see these two important projects recognised at a national level.
“Both schemes show how working closely with our partners enables us to deliver practical improvements that make a real difference to people across Wiltshire.
“The A3102 scheme is helping to make journeys safer for everyone, while our resilience work is ensuring the network is better prepared for challenging weather conditions.”
The winners will be announced at a national awards ceremony on June 17.
Sort local issues out. Shame the drain outside my place has been solid for at least a year. Rain just passes over the grid cover. Doesn’t drain away.