Construction Project Overview
Connect Plus Services (CPS) has a 30-year contract to maintain and operate the M25 and adjoining trunk and slip roads on behalf of Highways England. The scope of work includes routine and winter maintenance, as well as managing the whole-life requirements of the Dartford River Crossing.
CPS has been awarded a Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) Gold National Site Award for the incredible standards upheld during the project in 2023. The project team has demonstrated outstanding commitment to the Scheme’s goals and has achieved excellent results across the community, environment and workplace.
Project Highlights
This project has addressed the CCS Code of Considerate Practice to an exemplary standard. Community engagement remained particularly comprehensive, including a thorough social value plan and tracker. Environmental initiatives included an exceptional range of activities to support and increase biodiversity, and reduce carbon emissions. Workforce arrangements were of the highest standards with thorough safety provisions in place, including new technology to reduce safety risks. Wellbeing provisions were particularly thorough and welfare facilities were of extremely high quality.
Innovations & Best Practices
Standout examples of innovation include the introduction of an automated cone-laying machine, revolutionising traffic cone deployment and collection for improved worker safety. The machine laid and collected cones in seconds, eliminating manual lifting, reducing risks posed by traffic and fumes, and significantly enhancing safety in the roadwork sector.
Respecting the Community
Community requirements were addressed to an exemplary standard. Community communication and feedback were particularly thorough. The project’s social value plan and the levels of school and college interaction and support were exceptional. Comprehensive procedures remained in place to maintain site appearance standards.
Caring for the Environment
Environmental arrangements were conducted to an exceptionally high standard. Environmental management procedures were in place and certified. An environmental team was employed, training was provided for the workforce, and information was promoted publicly. Ambitious environmental and carbon footprint targets were set and monitored, with an award recently won for its carbon strategy. The project’s social value plan was used to document and monitor activities carried out to enhance the local natural environment, with a notable range of initiatives to support and increase biodiversity.
Valuing the Workforce
The arrangements in place for the workforce have been exceptional. The project’s zero-harm safety culture was prominent. Accredited occupational health and safety management systems were in place. Welfare facilities were of the highest standards and health and wellbeing provisions were exemplary.
Congratulations to the team for these outstanding performance levels.