February 2021 ciht.org.uk transportation professional
Futuristic tram taken forward for Coventry
winter service graphic design active travel digital roads Call for UK Transport sign Old rail tunnels Better public to follow doyenne shows converted for engagement Canada’s lead off her work cycling in Wales encouraged p7 p11 p16 p22
Visit CIHT’s official jobs website: cihtjobs.com transportation consultants directory 2021
Supplement to Transportation Professional, June 2021
CIHT’s Transportation Consultants Directory is the only source of information devoted exclusively to transportation specialists in the UK. Building on the formula which has established the directory as the definitive source of information on firms, their transportation skills and their specialisms, the 2021 directory will include:
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Transportation Professional, February 2021 ciht.org.uk Welcome to our seventh digital issue: BBA, 7 Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, transportation Kent TN4 8HH T: 01892 524468 professional Once again, Transportation Professional is provided as both an Editor: Mike Walter 01892 553148 electronic version and as a printed magazine. Readers who receive [email protected] a copy in the post may also like to browse this digital version to gain News Editor: access to additional content, such as videos. Steve Dale 01892 553146 Look out for the hand icon against some of the photographs [email protected] in this issue which will direct you to further content. Certain articles Consultant Editor: Nick Barrett 01892 524468 also contain interactive links highlighted in blue which will take you [email protected] to documents providing extra detail. Production: We welcome any feedback or suggestions you may have about Alastair Lloyd 01892 553145 [email protected] Futuristic tram taken this current digital format. forward for Coventry
Andrew Pilcher 01892 553147 winter service graphic design active travel digital roads Call for UK Transport sign Old rail tunnels Better public to follow doyenne shows converted for engagement Canada’s lead off her work cycling in Wales encouraged [email protected] p7 p11 p16 p22 Mike Walter, Editor
Visit CIHT’s offi cial jobs website: cihtjobs.com Commercial Director: Fawad Minhas 01892 553149 [email protected] 4 news & analysis: Strong case offered for more rail spend; Fears for public transport as car use spike expected; Call to follow overseas Sales Executive: 4 Kirsty Barrett 01892 524468 approaches to winter and streamline communications [email protected] 8 debate: Could electric scooters be a realistic mode of transport for most people taking short trips in urban areas within five years? working life: Paul Tuohy of the Campaign for Better Transport 9 tales from the past: The Highway Engineer Proprietor: The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation, 119 Britannia just one more thing: Rail debate rumbles on Walk, London N1 7JE T: 0207 336 1555 [email protected], ciht.org.uk, @CIHTUK 10 letters: Airport expansion and Covid; Electric vehicles and the planet;
TP Editorial Panel: Nick Boyle, John Amos, Bridge maintenance and active travel; Cycle priority at junctions Lynn Basford, Peter Dickinson, Jo Field, Billy McCoubrey, Chris Menzies, John Paterson, 11 transport sketch: Taking a virtual tour of sign exhibition Joanna Sammons, Dana Skelley 11 Novel public transport scheme gathers Barrett Byrd Barrett Byrd 12 very light rail: cover story – Associates Associates momentum in Coventry; Trams to be tested at Dudley innovation centre; Cirencester looks to introduce lightweight rail project 16 active travel: Green routes give deserted rail tunnels a new lease of Barrett Byrd Barrett Byrd Associates Associates life for cyclists and walkers in south Wales Publisher: Barrett, Byrd Associates, 7 Linden 18 road maintenance: Pothole funding challenge continues to frustrate Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH T: 01892 524455, barrett-byrd.com and a profile of the new Midlands Highway Alliance Plus group
The views expressed in Transportation 22 future mobility: Discussion hears of drive towards digital roads and Professional are not necessarily those of a look at research to ensure autonomous cars meet people’s needs the Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation or Barrett, Byrd Associates. 24 technical paper: Realising cost and efficiency savings from precise asset condition measurements 26 ciht news: Qualified members celebrate success, Entries open for
transportation professional annual awards ceremony, Governance changes at Council, Details of – Journal of the CIHT Spring Conference set out 2021 Subscription rates: 29 events: A round up of webinars taking place over the coming months, (January to December only, 10 issues) UK – £103 per year plus details of how to listen again to CIHT webinars held recently. International – £111 per year 30 directory ISSN: 1478-4467 16 31 recruitment © The Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation 2021. Incorporated by Royal Charter. CIHT is a charity registered in England (1136896), Scotland (SC040873) This issue’s cover: Officials from and the Republic of Ireland (20103989). Coventry visit a factory to see progress Transportation Professional is with building the city’s first ever ‘very available online in the ‘My CIHT’ light rail’ vehicle (see page 12). section of ciht.org.uk COVER IMAGE: MARK RADFORD
February 2021 3 news & analysis Strong case offered for more rail spend
Britain’s railways could soon see a “very Passenger numbers may substantial bounceback” in passenger bounce back numbers, assuming the Covid vaccination A LLOYD programme continues to be rolled out at pace, according to National Infrastructure Commission chair Sir John Armitt. Speaking to an All Party Parliamentary Rail Group meeting the other week Sir John added he did not believe that long term changes in passenger behaviour will be significant enough to undermine the case for more investment in greater rail capacity. He also said it would be “foolish to bet against the historic resilience of larger towns and cities” in recovering from the pandemic. I do not believe there is evidence to stop major He predicted that passenger volumes will Sir John spoke of the rail investments.” likely return within the next three to four continuing “strong case” Later in the session, economic advisor years, but added that the customer market is for rail investment in the Oxera’s partner Andrew Meaney gave his likely to be different with more long distance Midlands and the north of thoughts on the future of rail travel post leisure journeys. England and commented Covid. It would seem “fanciful” to consider “I am almost certain there that the health crisis a return to people pressed up against each will need to be some sort of and economic downturn other on the Tube any time soon, he said, incentivisation to encourage Sir John Armitt give “ever more reason adding that while recession and lockdown will people back onto rail and for work to go ahead and for a core set of end one day, reversing new trends like the use public transport,” he added, recommendations to be set and stuck to”. of video conferencing may be hard. “something akin to ‘Eat Out He also revealed that the National “Let’s imagine new habits do actually last,” Andrew to Help Out’.” Meaney Infrastructure Commission is about to start he suggested. “It will probably mean business And at a Transport Select a study into behavioural change arising from trips you do take are the ones that are really Committee session in early February, Transport Covid, which will feed into its next long term important, and commuting will be less of a Secretary Grant Shapps predicted that rail “has infrastructure needs assessment. habit and more of a choice.” a very bright future” in the long term, adding: “I do believe the bulk of commuting will At a second online event recently, Network “there may be pent up demand to see loved return, likewise long distance in the main,” Rail’s lead strategic planner Steven Hart said ones or, frankly, to get out of the house”. Sir John explained, “but of course there will a number of long term forecasts are under He observed that attending virtual meetings be reflection as a consequence of recent way to determine the likely demand from “just isn’t the same as being together”. MW experiences”. However he reiterated: “Today, passengers in the coming years. See ‘Just One More Thing’, page 9.
of chronic under investment” and that funding has Counter view heard over Welsh funding not kept up with that seen in England. Complaints that Wales does not get its ‘fair share’ improving train services in Wales. The session also heard the case for further rail of rail investment have been branded “childish “We need to step back and ask what the Welsh devolution in Wales, but Julian Glover warned: “Be and depressing” by a former senior civil servant. rail network should be doing on decarbonisation careful what you wish for. Julian Glover, a special advisor to the and supporting changes in society, and then “If you have a fixed budget and are a smaller Department for Transport until 2016, told (looking at how) to achieve that,” he said. infrastructure operation, big things that hit you the Welsh Affairs Committee of the House of “Let’s not just chase the money and say ‘if we from outside can be painful” such as the impact of Commons that focusing on what is ‘fair’ and can get enough cash good things will happen’. We flooding or dealing with falling passenger numbers whether the ‘cake’ has been ‘cut in the right have to know what the good things are we want.” due to Covid. “A bigger operator can sometimes way’ may not lead to the preferred outcome of Julian went on to say that English commuters take the burden of things that were not expected.”
CERI BREEZE – SHUTTERSTOCK – BREEZE CERI heading into London Waterloo might prefer He also remarked that focusing on the ‘benefit cheaper fares rather than subsidising “railways in / cost ratio’ of projects was an unsatisfactory the centre of Wales which carry few people and measure of assessing the need for rail investment. are expensive to run”. “It can drive money into places that have good “I’m in favour of running those railways (in things already; BCR is a false reassurance. Wales), I think they are great and I want them to “Sometimes things are just obvious,” he grow and be invested in, but fairness cuts both continued. “It is obvious the north Wales main line ways,” he continued. should run faster, with more frequent services and Julian Glover made his remarks after hearing probably should run HS2 services to Bangor. You A rural rail service in south Wales that Welsh railways have suffered from a “history don’t need a BCR to prove that.”
4 transportation professional news & analysis Fears for public transport as car use spike expected
Werrington’s new rail tunnel NETWORK RAIL Peterborough push Delays to passenger trains near Peterborough caused by slower moving freight traffic should ease by the end of the year when a new ‘dive under’ opens beneath the East Coast Mainline. A 155m long curved concrete box tunnel was slowly pushed beneath railway tracks at a junction TFGM near Werrington over nine days in January using Public transport use has been hit hard by the pandemic, including on Manchester’s Metrolink four hydraulic jacks. Work was carried out by Morgan Sindall Infrastructure. Transportation professionals face a major Sustainable modes including public The grade separation will allow slower freight challenge to ensure the eventual easing of transport must be “marketed in the right way trains serving a line to Spalding to cross the main Covid restrictions does not signal an with the right pricing and flexible ticketing”, East Coast route without disrupting services, and explosion in car traffic following behavioural she said, noting that the move to more home forms part of a wider £1.2Bn upgrade to the line. shifts seen since the start of the pandemic, a working will mean people are less willing to Network Rail’s principal programme sponsor webinar has heard. invest in season tickets. Ed Akers described the current East Coast Transport for Greater Manchester’s head of Nicola suggested that car clubs and the programme as “the biggest investment on the strategic planning Nicola Kane told the Act introduction of rental electric scooters could route in a generation”, delivering a 38% increase TravelWise conference last provide additional alternatives to public in seating capacity on long distance trains. month that public transport, walking and cycling. Asked if he is concerned that the extra capacity transport has been hit The conference also heard from Scottish may not be needed with more people working “extremely hard” while transport authority for the Highlands and from home, he replied: “The programme is built general traffic has Islands region HITRANS’ partnership director around long distance travel, not the commuter continued to grow since an Ranald Robertson. He too expressed concern type railway, so I don’t think we will regret doing initial drop last March. “We about a spike in car use. “We need to try and the investment, even if it takes a bit longer to Nicola Kane have a real concern about build the alternatives to the private car and build back up to the level of demand we had.” people’s willingness to come back to public recognise we are potentially on a cliff edge He added that Covid is causing Network Rail transport,” she said. here,” he said. to think more about affordability of projects and It is now “critical”, she added, for transport Transport for West Midlands’ head of doing things differently or in an innovative manner planners to engage with the public to demand management Deborah Fox to reduce costs. understand how their travel priorities have encouraged transport operators to come changed in light of Covid. “We are going to together – regardless of mode – in a campaign East West boost have to work really hard to show that there to help ‘lock in’ positive behaviours around are a range of alternatives to the private car walking and cycling and ensure that people Government has committed £760M to support and that they are safe to use.” feel safe returning to public transport. SD East West Rail to help deliver the next stage in restoring the former Varsity line between Oxford and Cambridge. Summer launch for rural mobility app The money will be used towards reinstating Public transport options ranging from rail to ferry to car clubs will services between Bicester and Bletchley and be brought together under a new Mobility as a Service platform construction of a new station at Winslow. The aim launching in the Highlands and Islands this June. The ‘Go-Hi’ is to see trains run between Oxford and Milton multi modal journey planning system will use real time data to Keynes by 2025. inform travel choices with payments made through an app. “We welcome the Government’s continued Ross Basnett, a director of technology firm Mobilleo, which will commitment,” said East West Rail Consortium operate the app, told the Act TravelWise conference: “Given the chair Sue Clark. But she added that the route’s geography of the Highlands, we know it will be a challenge to get “transformation potential will only be realised if it people out of their cars and into more sustainable modes.” is delivered in full.” Regional transport authority HITRANS’ partnership director The Government also promised £34M to Ranald Robertson said the platform – to be piloted for an initial 12 progress plans to reopen the Northumberland months – will offer users “real choice and much greater flexibility” FLEET ON DEMAND Line between Newcastle and Ashington. over their journeys, and will also promote walking and cycling. MaaS is coming to the Highlands
February 2021 5 news & analysis LANCASHIRE COUNTY COUNCIL COUNTY LANCASHIRE which forms a key element of the £200M Preston Western Distributor project, says Lancashire County Council’s project manager Phill Wilson. “A big concern for us was that we couldn’t lift in windy conditions. But fortunately the wind was with us until we had completed,” he said. Lifting of another 20 pairs of beams across four further spans of the viaduct is set to be completed shortly by main contractor Costain. “That then takes us onto casting the deck,” says Phill. The new distributor road connects the M55 motorway with the A583, 4.3km further south. Two link roads are also being created to connect areas of housing Beams for a new viaduct were installed over a railway line in Lancashire growth to the new distributor; avoiding already congested local routes. Lifting milestone reached In addition to the Lea Viaduct, further structures being delivered on the project include a crossing of a navigable on Preston distributor watercourse known as the Millennium Link – where “testing” ground conditions Work is progressing to construct a new saw a 600t crawler crane used to place five have been encountered during piling 250m long viaduct spanning a railway line pairs of bridge beams over the Blackpool work – and a bridge spanning the M55 and canal to the west of Preston where to Preston railway during a 54 hour for a major new junction. Phill adds that a new distributor road is being built to possession of the line. earthworks are progressing to schedule accommodate local housing growth. This marked an important milestone across the site. A major lifting operation over Christmas in the construction of the Lea Viaduct The road is due to open in spring 2023. COLAS Kier Highways has won an eight Contracts year contract worth £200M to maintain and manage Transport for AECOM and Atkins will provide London’s portfolio of 10 road tunnels. design and project management Skanska will demolish and replace a services on a programme to repair bridge on the Stechford to Aston rail or replace concrete surfaces across line to pave the way for High Speed the strategic road network. 2’s approach into Birmingham. High Speed 2 has shortlisted Sopra Steria will run Highways bidders to deliver almost £2Bn England’s National Traffic Information worth of ‘track systems’ design, Service – which gives motorists real logistics and installation between time journey data – after winning a London, Birmingham and Crewe. £42M, five year contract.
Connecting ports and industry: Construction of a new link road to better connect two of the Humber region’s major ports and unlock land 100 for industrial development is set to complete at the end of February. The 2.5km Humber Bank Link Road is being delivered by a Colas / SIAC Could electric scooters be a realistic mode of transport for joint venture for North East Lincolnshire Council. The new route will most people taking short trips in urban areas within five years? provide faster links between the ports of Immingham and Grimsby and relieve traffic pressures on the A180. Electric scooters have the potential to It replaces a former road not considered fit for purpose and has add another sustainable travel choice been delivered in three phases to ensure continued access for existing YES 64% in cities and are a good low carbon businesses, explained the contractor’s project director Alan Hicks. alternative to cars. “Our works were suspended for two to three months last year due to There are major safety issues associated Covid and we had some exceptionally adverse weather at the end of 2019 with mixing scooters and motor vehicles which caused us some concern.” NO 36% and they could discourage people from However following the resumption of works, two phases are now walking and cycling. complete and the third is due to finish at the end of this month. This final To join the CIHT100 panel please email [email protected] phase has involved construction of a culvert (pictured) to take the road This question can be responded to at ciht.org.uk Also, see page 8. over a waterway, with the focus now on surfacing and landscaping activity.
6 transportation professional news & analysis Call to follow overseas approaches to winter and streamline communications MARK CORBIN MARK JORDAN CROSBY – SHUTTERSTOCK International experiences of dealing with snow (above left) may help the UK to better prepare for heavy weather (right)
Britain should follow Canada’s approach to ‘script’ to help them provide accurate nationally to help people to better prepare,” managing communications during heavy information to callers. he said. snowfall and create a single point of contact Speaking to TP last month, Mark explained “Campaigns in the 1980s around road safety for people to report concerns, according to a that he found 311 to be a good mechanism to were very successful and it feels to me that UK highways network manager. receive issues, concerns and complaints as it we need to rediscover some of those methods Mark Corbin – who is “designed around the needs of residents”. that worked and repackage them for a new looks after key routes on But in the UK, he added, there are many generation to help people strengthen their behalf of Transport for different stakeholders who could be resilience during winter.” West Midlands – visited contacted, which “feels like a system that is Mark also noted that in Winnipeg cycle six cities in three countries built instead around delivery partners rather routes are treated as a priority for snow across North America and than customers. clearance and in Stockholm, Sweden, Scandinavia to investigate “It is important from a transport abandoned electric scooters can pose a Mark Corbin how winter resilience is perspective that we start to simplify this web problem for winter service delivery. He handled elsewhere, and has now published of complexity. We can and should do better.” predicts that in the UK there will be a his findings. Mark also calls for the UK to introduce lot more focus on treating footways and Mark writes that the UK has too many annual media briefings for journalists to cycleways in the coming years. customer contact channels in transport, explain winter preparations and provide He also visited the Swedish city of Borlange which creates a ‘web of complexity’ for clarity on the approaches being taken. He to hear about development of an automated users when there are issues to report. But in says this approach works well in the city of monitoring system showing in real time Canada one telephone number 311 is used for Calgary, which also sets out seven day snow the state of a road’s surface to allow better non emergency calls, which he describes as plans showing which roads, footways and decisions to be made. ‘critical to the successful delivery of winter cycle lanes will be cleared and when. Mark’s research project was supported maintenance’ in the cities he visited there. In Toronto, Mark noted that a new public by the Winston Churchill Fellowship and He goes on to explain that in Winnipeg, the awareness programme has been introduced involved him conducting over 50 interviews city’s street maintenance division provides to inform residents of winter service delivery, with professionals delivering winter call centre staff with a street snow clearing and points out that the city offers a web maintenance and members of the public. MW service allowing people to track the progress of snow clearing equipment in real time. Mark also attended the Winter Road Congress in Tampere, Finland, where he heard about the use of a ‘multi component’ sodium chloride product in Russia, designed to have less of a damaging environmental effect on soils during run off. Use of such materials should be explored in the UK, he adds. Another of his recommendations is to help strengthen people’s levels of resilience and change their behaviours when faced with MARK CORBIN Mark with representatives from Russia severe winter conditions. “We need to do more Cycleways are treated as a priority in Canada
February 2021 7 debate working life
Could electric scooters be a realistic mode of transport for most Paul Tuohy people taking short trips in urban areas within five years?
sequence of such dominant storage at the ends of people’s Yes transport modes and each of journeys easy. these periods leaves its imprint But that’s not all: Being on the city and dictates what like a bike in use, most people can come next. can become confident users No doubt many in a matter of minutes, and; Job title – Chief executive, Campaign professionals in transport being simple, cheap and for Better Transport were taken completely by robust, they can be offered for Terms of reference – Leading and surprise by the electric scooter members of the public to rent championing this national charity to phenomenon that emerged in spontaneously. protect and advance transport that Peter Miller recent years. There are of course many is greener, affordable and efficient, Visiting fellow Many had predicted that stories about how electric encouraging fewer trips by car. University of the West of electric vehicles would be the scooters are a curse, a danger Suitability for the job – As chief England Bristol future, but not that a design and bad for the environment. executive of Cycling UK I instituted How cities function has always based on a children’s toy with However we are already the ‘Big Bike Revival’ to encourage been greatly influenced by the two small inline wheels would seeing cities adapt to electric more people back to cycling. I also dominant transport modes prove to be so popular and scooters and electric bikes at helped create the Walking & Cycling available to, and used by, their influential. the expense of the private car, Alliance that convinced Government inhabitants. And this popularity seems and a city with less private cars to commit over £2Bn towards Think of all the workers due to a set of unique benefits: benefits in so many ways. infrastructure and education. leaving factories in British being compact, they allow My prediction is that electric Where based – At home. The cities in the early 1900s users to make good progress scooters are here to stay, will summer house is now the office. on their bicycles, or more through congested streets; hasten the end of the car era Transport to work – I walk. recently trains bursting with being powered, they reduce and will thereby influence Top of in-tray – A black coffee. After commuters and streets jammed the likelihood of users from the form of many of our great that, working with the team on our with cars. getting hot and sweaty; and cities in profound ways in the submission to the Government’s For each city we can plot a being portable, they make safe coming decades. consultation on the March Budget. It’s vital that emergency support for public transport continues and that cycling infrastructure – Then there is the risk of future investment is safeguarded – No where electric scooters would electric scooters causing an we are pressing for the Budget to be more suited – is not up to obstruction. Many of our confirm this. the job. footways are already too Best aspect of job – Having a The poor state of our roads, narrow. This has long been passionate and knowledgeable team congestion and traffic speeds a problem for people with to guide me. lead to people using electric wheelchairs, buggies and other Worst aspect – I took up my role at scooters on the pavement mobility aids, but now it is also the end of last year, so due to the because they are scared to use affecting everyone’s ability to pandemic I’ve not yet met the team the carriageway. practise physical distancing. in person. Dr Rachel Lee The speed, acceleration Scooter parking must be in What is the most important Policy and research and quietness of electric the carriageway and docked transport issue today? Bringing manager scooters can alarm pedestrians, to stop people littering the people back to public transport post Living Streets especially those who are less footway with electric scooters Covid. The bus and rail companies Last year I gave evidence to the able to hear their approach when they’ve finished their need them, and a healthy public House of Commons’ Transport or move out of the way. The journey and taking space away transport network is crucial for society Select Committee outlining Transport Select Committee’s from people walking. and the environment. some of our concerns about report called for robust Ultimately, we question the How do you relax? Running, the proposed trials of electric enforcement of the law. benefit of electric scooters for swimming and cycling. I also tinker scooter rental schemes. But is this even possible, short journeys. with my 1969 VW Beetle, ‘Bungle’, The use of privately owned given the reductions in police We should be encouraging bought when I was 19 – yes, I like cars! electric scooters on public road safety budgets and the everyone who can to walk or What advice would you give to your roads is still illegal. However, it huge constraints on police cycle their short trips to help younger self? Slow down. is becoming a familiar sight. time? We should instead be tackle physical inactivity, Ambition – A sub 20 minute Parkrun Rental e-scooters are not discussing civil enforcement which helps to reduce air (pb 20.17) when they’re back. permitted on the pavement, of penalties for scooting on pollution, as well as congestion which is good. The problem is the pavement. and road danger. Photograph courtesy of Cycling UK
8 transportation professional tales from the past just one more thing
Rail debate rumbles on
The Highway Engineer was the first journal of the “Humans will always want to be in touch with others” and despite the recent Institution of Highway Engineers. It was followed by popularity of video conferencing, “it just isn’t the same as being together”. These Highways & Transportation magazine and Transportation aren’t my words – although I agree with them wholeheartedly – but those of Professional. Here are extracts of stories from the past. the Transport Secretary when asked to justify ongoing rail investment, most notably High Speed 2. Grant Shapps told the Transport Select Committee earlier this month that rail “has a very bright future” in the long term, adding that 10 years ago growth in passenger numbers may be triggered by a “pent up demand to see Highway teams face “a huge struggle” to keep up with repairing loved ones” or a need “frankly, to get out of the house”. potholes following the coldest winter in a century, made worse by Who doesn’t crave an inter city train journey again, to see villages and fields severe cuts to maintenance budgets, a council chief has said. flash by at top speed? But before one could get carried away with optimistic post Peter Box of the Local Government Association said authorities lockdown thoughts, the session heard from Greg Smith, the MP for Buckingham will receive £165M less in capital funding from Government to fix and a staunch critic of the High Speed 2 project. Seizing on an earlier point that roads compared to the previous year. passenger numbers are well down on recent years, he asked: “Surely it is time to “The coldest December in 100 years will have taken a massive toll step back and do a proper review of what rail passenger demand could look like, on our roads and this damage is coming at a time when councils are before we spend in excess of £100Bn on High Speed 2.” being made to scale back their highway maintenance budgets,” The Transport Secretary replied: “Of course in the short term very few people he warned. are going to use the railways and it will take time to recover. But the West Coast Mainline was built in the 1830s and I hope we will be talking about journeys 25 years ago on the (new) line longer than we will be talking about Coronavirus.” He also Major cuts to the UK’s roads programme announced in the Budget predicted that in 50 or 100 years the public “will be grateful” that the current will be compensated for to a large extent by the private finance Government pushed ahead with the scheme. initiative, said Transport Secretary Sir George Young when he faced His comments came as protesters continued their fight against High Speed 2 tough questioning on roads spending from MPs. in makeshift tunnels beneath Euston. Despite enabling works being well under “The private finance initiative is about strong efficiency savings way and the environmental benefits of train travel over road well documented, from transferring the risk and management of roads to the private this is no maverick assembly of people fighting a lost cause. sector for 30 years,” he told a committee. Sir George added that PFI Supporters of the protesters’ actions include Baroness Jenny Jones who would allow the UK to develop a wholly new roads management argues that the scheme is destructive, unnecessary and very costly. She also industry which can win orders abroad. points out that societal changes as a result of the pandemic may see demand decrease for travel over the long term. 50 years ago In time the site will be cleared and the project will proceed. But the protest For centuries the pamphlet has been an effective political tool, wrote serves as a reminder that what starts as a low hum of disquiet against major RH Pitts of Cornwall County Council. Its application to controversial schemes can become very loud, especially in light of the climate emergency. traffic management schemes is a logical one and this method has Highways England should carefully take note of the public mood when been used to allay public disquiet in connection with a number of progressing the A303 Stonehenge tunnel and the Lower Thames Crossing, and traffic measures in Cornwall. make sure their arguments, as well as security around sites, are robust. Its advantage over a verbal exposition is that it can be carefully The committee session also covered active travel, with Lilian Greenwood MP prepared so that it leaves no doubt as to its meaning. Furthermore it asking if a new transport decarbonisation plan will set a target for reducing car ensures that everyone concerned is presented with the full facts, traffic. Grant Shapps spoke of his desire to see as many short trips made using which is something not always achieved at a meeting where there is a active means as possible, but added that while he wants cars “to be green and strong body of opposition. not damage the environment, I am not against people getting in their cars”. He was later asked by committee member Karl McCartney if he would 75 years ago perform a U-turn on Smart Motorways and stop their further roll out, in light Trains are run on rails for one purpose only – to reduce friction losses of safety concerns. Grant Shapps offered no such commitment, but did say he and therefore save fuel, wrote Lieutenant-Colonel Mervyn would not carry on with them in the manner in which they were introduced. He O’Gorman. But as cheaper fuel is used on roads, the merit of rail spoke of an 18 point plan being taken forward to improve safety and his desire to becomes ever less important. get rid of “confusing” and “insane” dynamic hard shoulders “that come and go”. If power could be obtained on both trains and motors for next to He added that he didn’t approve of the fact that emergency areas were spaced nothing – such as from atomic disintegration or a perfected diesel “way too far apart” and said he has instructed Highways England to put more in. engine – it would become pointless to economise it by the ‘cramping “Why these things were ever called Smart Motorways,” he reflected, “when device’ of rails, he said. they seemed anything but”. ‘Transportation would then revert with few exceptions to the more convenient roads’, he wrote, Mike Walter, Editor
February 2021 9 letters
Transportation Professional welcomes letters from readers on all subjects raised by the magazine and about any other transportation issue. Please keep your letters brief and include your CIHT designation, if applicable. The Editor reserves the right to condense. Address your letters to: [email protected] or write to: The Editor, Transportation Professional, 7 Linden Close, Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN4 8HH or use Twitter: @CIHTUK
Electric vehicles and the planet If I may pick up a point from your top story in January (‘Immediate climate action is crucial warn top advisors’), the higher cost of electric compared to fossil fueled cars reflects former economist Adam Smith’s observation that “the real measure of exchangeable value… is the toil and trouble of acquiring it”. Or a more succinct phrase I heard once in a lecture was that “energy is cash”. Do we yearn for If fuel gushes out of the ground, and its a return to flying? combustion products disappear into the HEATHROW AIRPORTS LTD atmosphere ‘out of sight and mind’ then Airport expansion and Covid And is it necessary that 20 young men fly to it is hardly surprising that a litre of it Adam Tyndall is certainly right that the UK Kraków for a stag weekend instead of going costs the same as bottled water, and needs to be well connected to the rest of the somewhere nearby? products that depend on it multiply to world, both for the exchange of people as well Plus with the internet available on every carpet the Earth. as the exchange of goods (Debate, January). train, what excuse is there for private or Why should electric cars be cheaper? But does this really necessitate airport business travellers to waste time in airport The exchange rate between cash and expansion? lounges, on planes and on the connection the harder to get energy to make and run If Covid has shown us something, it is that into the city centre for a flight from electric cars may tend to become more we can live and work very well while travelling Edinburgh to London? favourable, but this will have consequences much less than we were used to. If we invested in more and better train as much as the proliferation of oil wells and Yes it will be nice to have business meetings infrastructure and thought twice before refineries before it, namely to displace more back, where we can all go out for dinner booking a flight, that would free plenty of toil intensive or harder to grow things like together in the evening. And yes, it will be nice airport capacity for any imaginable increase active travel and forests. to go again on foreign holidays. in foreign trade. Water and electricity (like petrol, it But do we really need to fly across the world Christiane Bielefeldt FCIHT seems) always take the path of least for every business meeting, when the last few Emeritus Professor for strategic resistance, but we ought to be able to months have shown us that you can discuss management, Edinburgh Napier University proceed more intelligently. business on Zoom or Skype very well too? [email protected] Nicholas B Taylor FCIHT Hove, Sussex [email protected] Bridge maintenance and active travel I very much enjoyed reading the article on Cycle priority at junctions Whorlton Bridge near Barnard Castle I refer to the article ‘Cities to push cycle (TP Weekly News, 9 December). first system’ in the January edition and It just goes to prove how much difficulty was concerned to note the comment on structural engineers and civil engineers are reassigning cycle priority at signalled faced with when a listed structure shows junctions. signs of extreme fatigue. Because some cyclists go through Not only does the structure have to close red lights and get injured, the solution instantly until it is deemed safe to reopen, proposed would give approaching cyclists
in some cases a temporary structure needs Whorlton Bridge PETER MCDERMOTT – GEOGRAPH an automatic green light. to be operated temporarily while the It seems strange to reward illegal and damaged structure is being repaired. from pedestrians in Whorlton village centre dangerous behaviour in this way. Has the However there is no reason that this it would improve air quality, reduce traffic promoter of this system considered the cannot be used as an opportunity to noise and enhance the general ambience for outcome if the same logic were to be taken encourage more sustainable modes of everyone who visits. up by vehicle drivers – jump the lights often transport such as cycling and walking for Matthew Moss FCIHT enough and get signal priority? visitors to nearby Whorlton Hall. Senior traffic engineer, Kier Highways Dr Donald Lamont FCIHT If motor vehicles could be kept separate [email protected] [email protected]
10 transportation professional transport sketch Taking a virtual tour of sign exhibition
Everyone is familiar with Margaret Calvert’s Computer users work, even though many may not realise it. The can ‘visit’ Margaret Calvert’s show at graphic designer is responsible for the typefaces the Design Museum and pictograms that appear on signs beside motorways and primary roads, as well as inside railway stations. Millions of people have relied on her carefully crafted, legible fonts for over 50 years, pointing them in the right direction and giving instructions on how best to behave. Now a retrospective of her work is on display at the Design Museum in London. Except it isn’t, not really, given the latest national lockdown. Instead the exhibition is being hosted virtually and is open to all, for free, from the comfort of their own home. in her studio around 1970 and another of people typeface that has been recently refreshed with Visitors begin their tour in one corner of the taking part in a legibility test of signs in a field at Margaret’s help and is known as ‘Rail Alphabet 2’ exhibition, on the balcony gallery that wraps itself the Road Research Laboratory. – set to be introduced by Network Rail. Displays around the museum’s perimeter wall. Straight But it is the words of Margaret placed next show a comparison between characters, with away I knew which way to proceed thanks to a to a replica of her road sign ‘Children’ that are the new iteration slightly more rounded and series of blue and white arrowed road signs placed particularly revealing. She notes that the girl in condensed. strategically at knee height. the pictogram is based on herself as a child and Margaret spent a year designing the new Using my computer’s mouse to navigate, explains of the design: “I wanted it to be caring, characters and explains in the exhibition that I approached a series of exhibits and so I made the little girl lead the little boy”. despite being a lengthy process, “drawing by clicked on red and white circles to read Turning a corner in the exhibition, hand was my way of injecting a personal touch”, descriptions of what was displayed. we learn that ‘Calvert’ is the name of adding that she was keen to “avoid any eccentric Sketches and anecdotes from another of Margaret’s typefaces that mannerisms that might easily date”. Margaret’s early career are on show, was originally designed in the 1970s Visitors also see several new pictograms that including a quote from her former to create a ‘visual identity’ for a have been designed to reflect a changing society, tutor and later employer Jock new town in France. But it was with symbols depicting ‘vaping’ and Wi-Fi. Kinneir who said she had rejected as being ‘too English’ One display takes visitors into a ‘flythrough’ “an exceptional talent for and ended up being used showing a 3D visualisation of Liverpool Street design and a particular on the Tyne & Wear station featuring the new typeface. No crowds sensitivity to lettering”. Metro instead. of people are shown hurrying around or staring The pair were Margaret says she in a puzzled fashion at indicator boards; just the commissioned by the Ministry of Transport in thought the so called ‘slab serif’ form reflected soothing background hum of a busy station can 1958 to replace the ‘haphazard and dangerous’ Newcastle’s distinctive architecture and, 40 years be heard including the distinctive tones of a train signage on the roads with signs that are ‘clear, on, it is still in use. announcer whose voice, I suddenly realise, I miss. logical and consistent’. The typeface, or Visitors move on to a third of Margaret’s A further exhibit takes the visitor through to letterform, chosen for road signs is known as letterforms known as ‘Rail Alphabet’, designed a video showing a pair of hands leafing through ‘Transport’ and was, we learn, designed to be read to be read by slow moving pedestrians and a copy of a new design guide for rail wayfinding, from a distance and when travelling at speed. introduced in the 1960s. Among the many which pauses at several points to show some of It is also said that the pair’s road signs were exhibits are photographs of station signs using the detail up close. the first to differentiate road categories by using the style, and a scale model of an InterCity 125 The final of section of the exhibition is titled colour or white as a background. train featuring the livery. ‘Play’ where Margaret demonstrates her artistic Photographs on show include Margaret at work Also on display is a new version of the railway side, with a series of posters of traffic signs that
FELIX SPELLER FELIX have been redesigned. ‘Woman at Work’ (above left) shows the famous roadworker sign doctured to represent a female holding the shovel and ‘Mouse Crossing’ is a redrawing of the Children sign using Disney characters to help teach young people about road safety. Online tours will never replace the real thing, but given the current circumstances the museum has done well to recreate the experience. ‘Margaret Calvert: Woman at Work’ is available to view at designmuseum.org/exhibitions until One of the rail exhibits at the exhibition Margaret Calvert’s studio 11 April. MW
February 2021 11 very light rail
Passengers arriving at a rebuilt Coventry station may soon interchange with a very light rail vehicle serving the city centre and hospital COVENTRY CITY COUNCIL Novel transit scheme gathers momentum in the West Midlands
Coventry will kick off its UK City of Culture celebrations extension east towards the Ansty Park this summer by showcasing a lightweight tram that business district. A comprehensive ‘clover leaf’ could enter service in 2025, reports Mike Walter. network serving the city’s Arena (north), proposed High Speed 2 station osts associated with rail’ and involves lightweight – and near Tile Hill (west) and King’s Hill installing conventional possibly autonomous – battery electric (south) could follow. Clight rail systems place tram vehicles running on a novel track form Each vehicle will be a single 11m long, schemes out of reach for many mid with a shallower foundation, that “People are more four door passenger car with capacity sized conurbations. But a cheaper reduces excavations and eliminates inclined to use for around 50 people. Platforms will alternative is being developed for the need to relocate buried utilities. trams. This be long enough to accommodate two Coventry that could significantly bring Coventry plans to introduce a 7km project is about vehicles at once during peak times. down the price of mass rapid transit corridor between the city’s railway modal shift.” According to city councillor Jim Jim O’Boyle vehicles and infrastructure. station and University Hospital O’Boyle the aim is to offer a ‘turn The concept is called ‘very light within five years, with a later up and get on’ service to provide an attractive alternative to travelling by car. “People are more inclined to use trams rather than buses,” he says, but adds that the cost of conventional metro projects – in the order of £50M per kilometre – “did not add up for a city the size of ours”. Connecting the railway station “Other places and hospital with a tram makes good are watching sense, he adds, because prior to Covid us closely as we deliver the station had seen one of the fastest this scheme.” rates of growth in use outside London Nicola Small and the medical facility lacks parking facilities. ”This project is about modal shift and improving both air quality and quality of life. I’m confident the first
Assembly of a prototype vehicle took place recently MARK RADFORD route will work extremely well.”
12 transportation professional very light rail
Christchurch Spire and the Whittle Arch will form part of the backdrop to City of Culture celebrations starting this summer COVENTRY CITY COUNCIL
Jim says the scheme will be rather than 600mm as seen on most Seddon says the vehicle design and deemed a success if it proves to be other light rail schemes. novel track system will make it well used, is affordable and leads to a The project team is also designing easier to run services through tight “demonstrable reduction in car use” on a bogie to allow the vehicle to achieve streetscapes in the historic centre as routes served by very light rail. a 15m radius – a significantly tighter well as densely populated areas. He adds that the innovative vehicle curve than the typical 25m seen on “When passengers stop noticing is also an opportunity to secure jobs other light rail schemes. how novel the system is and it for the future, using technology and Batteries tested to provide power becomes normal to use will be the experience developed in the local “Success will be to the vehicles currently offer 20km point at which we know the scheme automotive industries. when passengers of travel from a five minute rapid has succeeded,” he adds. Coventry City Council’s programme stop noticing charge. Partners in the project include Coventry is set to develop a new manager for very light rail Nicola how novel the the Warwick Manufacturing Group, transport strategy over the next year Small MCIHT explains that the system is.” vehicle designer TDI, assembler underpinned by technology including John Seddon scheme has a target construction cost NP Aerospace and track design very light rail, autonomous vehicles of around £10M a kilometre. specialist Ingerop. and electric vehicle charge points. She adds that a concept design “We feel this is a project required According to John the strategy will for a shallow track foundation is not just by Coventry and the wider demonstrate the city’s “willingness to currently being taken forward to region but the nation too,” Nicola says. give new ideas a go”. detailed design. “There is significant momentum for But allied to the focus on future The slab will sit within the surface what we are doing and other places technology is an emphasis in the and binder layers of a road and be laid are watching us closely as we deliver city centre on making conditions to a target depth of around 300mm, this scheme.” more favourable for what is locally One key ambition for the scheme is described as Shanks’s Pony – or Possible scope of Coventry’s network autonomous operation, she adds. “That getting around on foot. would be the icing on the cake. Once Public realm enhancements and Arena vehicles drive themselves it will reduce improvements to walking routes operation costs and allow us to deliver are covered by a £44M investment a high frequency service which will and there is money going into two help achieve significant modal shift.” segregated cycle routes to suburbs to University Hospital Local residents will get their chance the north and east. to see a prototype of a very light rail Coventry is also looking to address vehicle this summer when Coventry several pinch points on roads into Tile Ansty Railway City centre provides a showcase of transport the centre, including bringing a Hill station Park technology and innovations at the redundant railway arch into use city’s Transport Museum; part of a for traffic to the west of the city to University Coventry year long celebration marking its remove two way signalised control of Warwick University UK City of Culture status, whose start through an adjacent arch.
ALASTAIR LLOYD ALASTAIR was postponed from January due to This follows work in recent years the pandemic. to upgrade signals on the A45 ring First section to Coventry City Council’s head road to improve traffic flow and air Kings Hill be completed of transport and innovation John quality.
February 2021 13 very light rail
Dudley Council leader Patrick Harley (left) and Nick Mallinson of the innovation centre cut the first sods for the rail test facility DUDLEY COUNCIL Dudley rail innovation centre breaks ground
Testing of Coventry’s prototype The three storey innovation lines. “We see an opportunity to not thousands of people long distances very light rail vehicle begins centre – to be completed next only build new vehicles but look at very efficiently, but onward this month at a new innovation spring – will feature a larger the infrastructure, which represents connections need to be better to centre under construction on an workshop served by two rail lines, a the biggest cost of railways. encourage more people to abandon abandoned rail corridor in Dudley. travelling crane and maintenance pit “We are trying to provide much their cars,” he adds. The site features a 2.2km long to allow work under the vehicles. lower cost solutions for a network’s “There are a lot of routes closed test track – including 850m through Laboratories on site will allow ‘twigs and branches’ where it can be due to Beeching which you would a tunnel – laid on part of the former researchers and engineers to difficult to make an economic case not reopen using traditional metros South Staffordshire freight line. address rail related challenges and for a railway,” he adds. and could benefit from a ‘lighter’ Initial evaluation trials will be run develop new materials, components “To do that we need to look at approach. We are talking to a couple on standard gauge track for eight and lightweight structures. different infrastructure, vehicles of developers that are keen to look weeks, followed by several months There will also be an auditorium and signalling systems. We may at very light rail to help achieve of endurance testing. A small and exhibition area to host events. even get to a point where trams are pollution targets and raise the workshop will provide maintenance The centre will be run by the Black controlled by an iPhone.” value of their land by improving and a rapid charger alongside the Country Innovative Manufacturing Nick says that very light rail could public transport. track will be used to recharge the Organisation which is working to provide a useful mode of transit “We think there are at least 20 battery powered rail vehicles. develop very light rail technologies. for areas not well served by public medium sized towns and cities in Over the following 18 months a The innovation centre’s chief transport, with smaller autonomous the UK that would desperately like section of the novel track system executive Dr Nick Mallinson says pods one day providing an option for a tram system but cannot afford set to be installed in Coventry will the facility has been set up to help the final leg of journeys to residents traditional light rail. I would say we be laid too in order to evaluate its develop more cost effective urban living in rural areas. are reaching a tipping point with performance. light rail schemes, as well as branch “Heavy rail is very good at moving this concept.”
JOHNLP Cirencester campaigners look to introduce lightweight vehicle
Plans are being developed to introduce a very granting of a Transport & Works Act order – light rail system in Gloucestershire to provide construction could begin in a few years. a service between Cirencester and Kemble, Richard points out that many residents of which used to be linked by a railway prior to the Cirencester have to drive in order to catch a Beeching cuts of the 1960s. train and said a recently extended car park at Such a service would make use of former Kemble could be full within a few years. railway trackbed that remains clear of Pressure on the roads is set to increase with RICHARD GUNNER RICHARD development, but several bridges would need to development of over 2300 homes to the south be rebuilt along the 8km route. of Cirencester. The plan is led by electronics engineer Richard “Part of the feasibility study was to consider Gunner and his wife Jane from the Cirencester alternatives, but very light rail came out as the Community Railway group. “My wife’s father was most cost effective option and offers the lowest always saying someone ought to reopen the line carbon footprint,” Richard adds. “With a climate and after he passed away we thought ‘now is the crisis looming there has to be viable public time to make it happen’,” says Richard. transport systems for people to use.” Feasibility work for reinstating the line The group is proposing to begin with two is backed by a £50,000 grant from the vehicles using a single track with passing places
Kemble station (top) could be reconnected to Government’s ‘Restoring Your Railway’ Fund and to synchronise very light rail services with Cirencester: a route that is still largely intact and the hope is that – subject to funding and trains arriving into Kemble station.
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CIHT 2020 membership with illustration A4.indd 1 09/11/2020 16:20 active travel Green routes give deserted rail tunnels new purpose
Volunteer led efforts to repurpose old railway structures as leisure and commuting routes for walkers and cyclists are being taken forward across south Wales, reports Steve Dale.
f you build a cycle track next to a main road, you are only likely “Ito get limited uptake. But if you can create something that is really attractive and away from the stress of traffic, people will flock to it,” says Sustrans founder and former chief executive John Grimshaw. With this in mind, John’s current organisation Greenways & Cycleroutes is overseeing finishing touches to a new off road active travel route on the border between England and Wales, near Chepstow. The 8km Wye Valley Greenway John Grimshaw enlisted volunteers prior to the current lockdown to help deliver the Wye Valley Greenway project connects Wyedean school in Sedbury with Tintern further north stand a much better chance because they are where they want to go.” – in what is an area of outstanding you are not looking at the bottom line She explains that safe, off road natural beauty – and has involved all the time.” greenways which people may visit for conversion of a former railway tunnel Key to the Wye Valley Greenway leisure – such as on a family holiday – for walking and cycling. The scheme project’s delivery was that John – as are important for getting non-cyclists is being delivered in large part by chief executive of Sustrans – struck to try the mode. “To say you only want volunteers. an agreement in the mid 1990s with to build routes where people will John and the group’s co-founder the Transport Secretary of the day make work journeys seems very short Caroline Levett took on the challenge “People find our allowing use of the 1.1km Tidenham sighted because you are not getting the of getting the scheme built after greenway routes Tunnel, which last accommodated next generation coming along.” various previous attempts over the because they trains in 1981. Local enthusiasm for the new years fell by the wayside. “When we are where they “We think this route will be greenway and volunteering efforts started Greenways we resolved to only want to go.” enormously popular. It is an absolutely have played a crucial role in its delivery. Caroline Levett do the ‘impossible’ projects,” says John. spectacular site in wonderful Volunteer coordinator Jeremy “The reason why some of these countryside,” he says. Cowen – who lives in Chepstow – projects are very difficult is that the The new greenway is expected to says: “Being able to access the Wye sheer amount of time you have to put attract all types of uses, including Valley directly from the town using in to get them through is ‘unfundable’ tourism and leisure as well as for local sustainable low carbon active travel in a commercial sense,” he adds. commutes and travelling to school. means this really is the dream. I am Contractors “However if you have a group of prepare new Caroline adds: “We never advertise hoping this will set a precedent for volunteers doing the negotiations you surfacing our routes; people find them because more of these routes in the local area.” GRAEME BICKERDIKE / FORGOTTEN / RELICS BICKERDIKE GRAEME Abergavenny • Wales England A40 Lydney to A465 • Merthyr Tydfil Parkend Abernant Rhondda Tunnel Wye Valley Tunnel Greenway Swansea • Chepstow • M48
M4 M4
Cardiff • • Bristol
16 transportation professional active travel Breakthrough expected on Rhondda reopening Campaigners hoping to reopen the commemorative stone above the says Steve. “It has been a long long abandoned Rhondda Tunnel in Blaencwm portal the words ‘please and laborious process but I am the heart of the South Wales valleys open me’. optimistic we will see the transfer for use by pedestrians and cyclists When the portals were eventually of ownership within the next six are growing increasingly optimistic. sealed in 1980 the stone was months.” The 3.1km tunnel ceased taking removed and presumed lost. But This, explains the society’s railway services between the in an unusual twist of fate, Steve project secretary Tony Moon, would Rhondda and Afan valleys 50 years rediscovered the stone in 2013 in a allow the group to apply for grants ago. Reviving the structure as an patch of brambles while out walking. to carry out a £10M reopening active travel route, according to the It now resides at nearby programme, involving excavation Rhondda Tunnel Society, would help Treherbert railway station, waiting of the tunnel’s buried portals and to connect deprived communities to return to the Rhondda Tunnel. minor repairs as well as a new visitor and attract tourism to the area. “When we reopen the tunnel it will centre and car parking. The society was set up in 2014, be one of the longest for walking and “Detailed examinations have but for its chair Steve Mackey the cycling in the world,” says Steve. shown the tunnel itself is structurally GRAEME BICKERDIKE RELICS / FORGOTTEN mission to reopen the tunnel began However a key challenge to sound,” says Tony. “It just needs a Inside the Rhondda Tunnel in the 1960s. As a child living in the overcome first relates to the clean and a cycle path put in it.” village of Blaencwm where one of ownership of the structure, which The whole programme could l Welsh Government is in its portals is located, he would walk is currently under Department for take 18 months. discussion with the Department though the tunnel when no trains Transport control. The society is It is hoped that development for Transport over transferring were running and “marvel at the encouraging the Welsh Government of a visitor experience around a ownership of another disused workmanship”. to take on responsibility for the reopened Rhondda Tunnel would structure – the Abernant rail tunnel The tunnel closed on safety tunnel and allow its reopening. see it become a key part of a – which could form part of a future grounds in 1968, prompting “The Welsh Government is growing tourism offer in the area. active travel route from Merthyr young Steve to paint on the showing great interest these days,” The society’s business plan Tydfil to Aberdare. subcommittee chair Debra White Merthyr Tydfil and Rhondda adds: “Our aim is to provide an Cynon Taf County Borough important active travel route for Councils are working together to locals and also encourage more develop the scheme. people to come into the valley. The 2.3km structure was “It is such a beautiful place and we designed by Isambard Kingdom see tourism as the way forward for Brunel and the last train ran Steve Mackey (left) and Tony Moon hope to see the tunnel open to cyclists this area.” through it in 1962.
Last summer saw 3.5km of has been built by contractors, with the remaining railway track removed from whole scheme costing under £250,000. the route and planning permission The route will formally open on 1 April. came in July. Bat licences were then John Grimshaw concludes: “What granted in August – owing to a large we really want to see is a change to number of horseshoe bats in the area more sustainable transport in Britain. – and main works in the Tidenham Our particular contribution to that Tunnel completed by the end of is to build wonderful places where September. people can get the confidence to This included installation by cycle again.” volunteers of lighting through the WALLACE – ALASTAIR SHUTTERSTOCK tunnel and a steel shield to stop debris l Greenways & Cycleroutes is also Call to save structures: Plans to infill or demolish 130 falling through an air shaft. Further working on plans for a second former railway bridges and structures over the next five years volunteer activity along the route has greenway route nearby, linking the have been slammed by campaigners keen to see disused included wall building and fencing. town of Lydney on the bank of the infrastructure converted into active travel routes. Jeremy adds: “We had a great range River Severn to Parkend in the Forest A petition against the plans by Highways England – which of people involved across a series of of Dean where it would connect with a manages the historical railways estate – has been launched by work camps, many of whom arrived network of forest paths. an alliance of walking, cycling and heritage advocates known professing to have no knowledge or The project has the backing of local as the HRE Group. It says the plans could compromise future skills. But by the end of the week, they councils and a planning application greenway schemes by blocking or severing the routes the found themselves having acquired was submitted recently for the route, structures span or carry. new talents.” which would involve building several Highways England says it has contacted local authorities Much of the path itself including bridges and a tunnel under an existing to see if they have any use for the structures. asphalt surfacing through the tunnel steam railway. For more on this story, see TP Weekly News, 13 January.
February 2021 17 road maintenance Pothole funding challenge continues to frustrate Britain’s local roads still require more investment and new approaches to help prevent further deterioration, according to industry commentators.
ncreased capital funding for road maintenance committed by the IGovernment last year has been slow to reach the network, and more will be needed to make a dent in the pothole crisis, sector specialists say. Participants in a discussion convened to mark National Pothole Day in January suggested that some
local roads are reaching a stage Condition of some local highways is still a cause for concern ASPHALT INDUSTRY ALLIANCE of deterioration where they are “dangerous” and potentially in need least with Covid – “it is no surprise that He also calls for an additional of closure. seeing this money trickling through is £1.5Bn to be committed every year to A survey of councils conducted patchy at best”. fund resurfacing projects, which he as part of the annual campaign also “A lot of people think the silver bullet says would allow authorities to “plan, found that 81% of respondents believe is simply to put more money into road improve productivity and get the best the pothole problem has worsened repairs without understanding how economies of scale”. A small increase over the last five years, while 57% have long it takes for that money to make its in fuel duty could help pay for this, had their funding for road repairs cut way onto the network,” he adds. he adds. over the same period. Des also makes the point that “Just repairing potholes is a waste Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced councils need time to carefully of money – they are a sign of a more at last March’s Budget a new Pothole plan spending as part of their asset fundamental carriageway failure.” Fund worth £2.5Bn over five years to management strategies. Impacts of Covid have not all been help councils ‘tackle potholes and stop Road condition campaigner Mark negative on the road maintenance them from forming’. Morrell says: “A big problem in relation sector, notes materials provider But construction and infrastructure to funding is when the Government UltraCrete’s brand manager specialist Aria Consult’s director Des suddenly turns the tap on, but doesn’t Richard Moss. Bourne notes that – in light of the realise there is a lead time for works to The first lockdown last year pressures authorities are under, not actually be delivered.” saw many local authorities take the opportunity of quieter traffic conditions to bring forward GUY DIXON GUY Speedy repairs in Stoke: Plant maintenance works on their networks. manufacturer JCB has launched a new “I think there is a drive now to machine which it claims can repair a road collaborate more across the industry in under eight minutes. since the pandemic,” Richard adds. The firm’s PotholePro cuts the defect, However it was also suggested crops the edges and cleans the hole that major national issues including ready to be filled, mechanising jobs the Coronavirus crisis and Britain’s traditionally done manually. exit from the European Union may The machine has been tested in have taken Government’s focus Stoke-on-Trent where, in initial trials, away from giving councils the it completed 51 road repair jobs in 20 long term highway budgets they days, which the company says would desperately need. have taken a team of up to six operatives Civil Engineering Contractors 63 days to complete normally. Association’s chair of the Midlands >
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Feb_2021_Transportation_Professional_Hillhead_1.indd 1 28/01/2021 08:44:53 road maintenance
> region Nigel Drew, of R&C Williams, advocates more productive approaches to programming repairs – such as filling several potholes in an area at the same time – to help make better use of available funding. But he notes difficulties with booking road space to carry out works. “I think we have got to start thinking “It takes a long a little bit outside of the box on how we time for repair can maximise what we do,” he says. money to make “If we have a gang with an impact its way onto local roads.” protection vehicle we can probably Des Bourne get two or three times as much done compared to relying on normal traffic management”.
In terms of innovation, materials Filling several defects at once can be more efficient UYANIK – SHUTTERSTOCK supplier Emtek’s Northern Ireland director Neil McKee highlights a l Commenting on the topic, CIHT recommendations that would make further difficulty in that trials of new chief executive Sue Percy said: a real difference including the need approaches often do not continue “Despite the efforts of central and to establish a new inflation linked beyond a pilot scheme. local government, the local highway local highways fund on top of current “Industry can bring innovation, network is not in a good state and funding, creation of an improved but the real challenge is in getting the not up to the job of supporting the system of monitoring and a national departments to have the appetite to try country’s ambitions for the future. condition database.” and build a longer trial or really push “In our ‘Improving Local Highways’ For further information visit out pilot schemes.” SD report we outlined a series of ciht.org.uk/ilh
Midland authorities form a new highways alliance Benefits of greater collaboration at this don’t lose any of the identifying features of any challenging time are being recognised by local of the former organisations.” highway authorities across the Midlands who are For example the Midlands Service joining forces to share good practice, innovation Improvement Group specialised in supporting and procurement resources. its members with technical expertise and This spring sees the launch of a new group sharing knowledge, while the West Midlands known at Midlands Highway Alliance Plus. It Highway Alliance was noted for ‘blue sky brings together 35 authorities within the region thinking’. The Midlands Highway Alliance – by merging three existing bodies: the Midlands alongside distributing good practice – offered Highway Alliance, Midlands Service Improvement routes to market through its procurement Group and the West Midlands Highway Alliance. frameworks. “Our whole ethos is focused on collaborative The new collaboration comes at a time when working,” says Midlands Highway Alliance authorities are struggling to maintain their executive board chair Ann Carruthers of networks with increasingly limited funding, Ann Carruthers of Leicestershire County Council Leicestershire County Council. “It is about while facing the pressures of continuing to collectively discussing how we develop, organise deliver during Covid and the looming threat of works under way quickly when the Government and operate as a sector in the region.” climate change. hands out one-off capital funds. She adds that particular focus will be placed Ann Carruthers continues: “The plea to Supporting authorities to bring forward and on best practice, “raising the bar” and horizon Government has consistently been to give us a share innovations will also be a focus for the scanning to future proof the sector, with the new multi year funding settlement. new organisation, which could include a fresh organisation combining the key specialisms of its “None of us can really afford major surface look at what materials will be needed on future constituent groups. reconstructions any more, it takes too much highways in light of climate change, as well as “Thirty five members represent just over 20% out of your limited budget. But if we had sight how technology could be better used for asset of highway authorities in the country,” she adds. of a five year programme we could deliver far management and road inspections. “There is a powerful voice there when it comes more effectively and get a better value Ann Carruthers adds: “As one authority, you to engaging with Government and the wider outcome for the network.” are very limited in what you can do. But under industry.” Midlands Highway Alliance programme board something like the Midlands Highway Alliance Plus Midlands Highway Alliance manager Peter chair Ian Bamforth of Worcestershire County we can collaborate, learn from each other and Barclay adds: “One of the things we are trying Council adds that the procurement frameworks bring resources together. This is absolutely the to make very sure of with this merger is that we offered by Alliance Plus will make it easier to get way to go in this day and age.”
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Average speed enforcement solutions 190x 134.indd 1 08/10/2019 17:19:12 future mobility
Driving towards digital roads
Highways of the future and autonomous vehicles will need to fully consider motorists’ needs BABAROGA – SHUTTERSTYOCK
Transitioning to digital roads will not Atkins strategic highways client industries including gaming. director Ian Spellacey added that one CIHT President and event chair just be a technical challenge, but require challenge in delivering digital roads Martin Tugwell asked if there is better engagement with the public a will be helping road users accept a enough collaboration between the CIHT and Atkins event heard. “loss of freedoms” when sitting in transportation sector and car makers. autonomous vehicles. “We must bring “Two years ago, definitely not,” Bob people on the journey,” he remarked, replied. “Now it is completely different; ector professionals creating especially when it comes to security we engage with many involved in highways fit for a digital age and the ownership of data. smart road infrastructure and smart Sneed to be more vocal about their Highways England’s head of cities.” He added the ban on selling ambitions, remarked Atkins’ innovation scheme planning and strategic internal combustion engine vehicles by director Matt Peck to an online sponsorship Wayne George agreed 2030 represents “a good opportunity to discussion held last month. that the “customer space is the most kick start a digital roads revolution”. “There are lots of impressive things challenging aspect” of introducing Connect Plus Services digital to talk about and we should be proud technology enabled highways transformation manager Adam Talbot Ian Spellacey of what we do,” he said. It is important, compared to the more tangible aspects said the highway sector can learn a he added, to “get out there and be a bit of their design, construction, operation lot from aviation, where data science more public”. and maintenance. represents the “crown jewels” of some Highways England’s executive He also called for the “hidden aspects airlines. But many in highways are not director for strategy and planning Elliot of data science” to be promoted more ready yet. “To get the sector to shift to Shaw agreed. “We need to shout louder fully across the sector to showcase that operating model is a massive leap.” and be more positive; it could help get progress made to date. The event also heard from ITS more new entrants into the sector.” CIHT chief executive Sue Percy Leeds professor Oliver Carsten who Elliot added the next five to eight warned that motorists “will not called for creation of a standard high years will be crucial to convey to the necessarily react in the same way” to definition digital map of roads which public the need for digital roads and digital roads, adding “technology in a autonomous vehicles can understand. Sue Percy how they can support longer term vacuum will not convince or assure He also said rural routes could benefit changes like the rise of connected and the public”. Communicating with the greatly from digital systems and must autonomous vehicles. public will be key, she added. not be overlooked. “Change will be incremental and Sue said that digital systems must Concluding the discussion, Martin momentum needs to build, but it’s not just be developed for use on the Tugwell set out how CIHT will important we don’t get overwhelmed strategic network, but be of benefit to continue to convene events such as by big future visions.” He added change major and local highways and apply this one as the sector looks to identify needs to be delivered in “bite sized internationally as well. “Accompanying and realise the opportunities presented pieces” and there is an opportunity to regulations need to be thought about, by digital roads and connected vehicles. deliver real benefits in the shorter term. alongside technological solutions.” “This will require new partnerships Connect Plus Services managing Nissan’s senior research engineer and relationships if we are to realise director David Neal said that without a Bob Bateman Bob Bateman explained that the full potential,” he said. MW “step by step approach” to introducing vehicle manufacturers developing new ideas, people may struggle to autonomous technology are looking l If you would like to be involved envisage what a future highway outside of the automotive sector in similar digital discussions, email network could look like. to recruit software engineers, to [email protected]
22 transportation professional future mobility Keeping motorists front of mind
Making sure future users of driverless taxis enjoy convenient and comfortable journeys is the aim of a new initiative.
esearch exploring how robo- taxis of the future might R best meet passengers’ needs will ramp up this year as part of the ServCity autonomous vehicle programme. The project places significant focus on how such taxis could successfully integrate into complex urban
environments. Human factors research inside a simulator SERVCITY It will explore the potential demand for them in London and establish a “The importance of this project for environment, but only if people want ‘blueprint’ for how users could engage us is making sure these services are to use them,” Andy Hart says. with a driverless service at different accessible and inclusive for everybody. In addition to exploring human stages of their journey: from hailing “Getting the user experience right factors, the £11.5M ServCity project a taxi to specifying a destination and is crucial for safety and satisfaction, – which runs to the end of 2022 – will even making changes en route. which will hopefully lead to people also see on road testing begin later this “The push towards autonomy has feeling more comfortable to use these year at TRL’s ‘Smart Mobility Living been mainly focused on engineering services and potentially making the Lab’ in Greenwich. and technology to date,” explains “Get the user decision to ditch the private car.” This aims to evaluate the viability of consultant SBD Automotive’s director experience The university is focusing on how using roadside sensors such as CCTV Andy Hart. “As that has reached a right and more ‘human-machine interfaces’ – such as cameras and infrastructure to vehicle certain level of maturity, the big people may in car displays or interaction points on communication to provide ‘shared question now is how it will work for ditch the car.” the outside of a taxi – might work and situational awareness’ for vehicles. Madeline Hallewell people in the real world.” will explore how members of the public Living Lab’s head of technical James The company is one of six partners would interact with these through Long says this could help to “unlock” on the ServCity project and is simulator and virtual reality based complex urban environments for focused mainly on human factors evaluations. autonomous vehicles by giving them research alongside the University Meanwhile SBD is looking into how an advanced view of conditions ahead. of Nottingham. Other partners an experience based on a smartphone The Connected Places Catapult’s are Nissan, Hitachi, TRL and the app would work for passengers. programme manager Edward Mayo Connected Places Catapult. “Robo-taxis have such incredible adds: “At the end of the project we hope Research fellow Dr Madeline potential for reducing congestion, to have a vehicle safely navigating the Hallewell from the university adds: improving safety and helping the streets of London.” SD
Motion sickness study to start soon
Combating the threat of motion likely to make this worse. “Whereas we accept that most sickness in future autonomous But according to Dr Cyriel people will get sick trying to read in cars is the aim of a new study led Diels of the college’s Intelligent a conventional car, the consumer by the Royal College of Art, which Mobility Design Centre, one of the expectations of autonomous starts this spring. perceived benefits of autonomous vehicles are different. This is a key Results may help vehicle cars is that more people will have driver for our research,” he says. designers to create interiors time to engage in non driving One possible way of helping and interactive systems that related activities. occupants of driverless cars reduce the chance of passengers If many people feel sick doing steer clear of motion sickness experiencing nausea. so, this may undermine the is to provide audible or visual Motion sickness in cars is often business case for such vehicles, he ‘predictive cues’ in anticipation of triggered when looking down explains. Traveling backwards and a sudden movement. Preliminary
A study of motion sickness could lead to read or using a laptop – and in windowless cars may also make results of the study are expected to improved design of driverless cars RCA autonomous vehicles are not matters worse. later this year.
February 2021 23 technical paper Realising savings from precise asset condition measurements
Investing in accurate condition measurements of a highway network can lead to better decisions around procurement, reduce costs and ultimately improve surface quality, says Marc Tite.
Introduction It is increasingly common for highways teams to be challenged by procurement colleagues, senior managers or finance departments to offer a saving for new contracts when coming to the end of a current term maintenance or framework arrangement. So how are you going to deliver savings on your contracts going forward, what are the options enabling you to do this and what is in your actual control? Information held by a local highway authority about its assets, their condition and status represents the best way to prove to contractors that you know what you have and what Accurate road condition measurements can help authorities to better understand their assets needs to be maintained. This may seem logical, but increasingly this is not performing, we have to ask if the data looking at long term 25 year modelling always the case. behind the information is current, or potential multi million pound Most asset owners know intuitively appropriate and complete. Having a investments, a 10% error of £10M is that by aligning this with their robust asset register, pavement £1M, which equates to a few extra highway infrastructure asset construction records and carrying out capital investment schemes being management plan they should be able regular condition surveys help to keep delivered or not for many local to give potential contractors the best this information current. However it is authorities. information. But how? worth not under estimating the scale It is also politically damaging, As stated in the Highway of doing this and the ramifications if economically stunting and detrimental Infrastructure Asset Management you do not. This is where accurate to a local authority’s reputation if a Guidance, an asset management plan measurements come into play. budget is spent in such a manner. Plus should provide information on how a also a hit to the teams who work so network is managed, its performance Measuring accurately hard to plan and deliver this work and requirements and the programme of If the survey data and asset register in doing so helping to dispel any works. To achieve this we have to start data are off by 10% at source it can misconceptions about the level of skill by considering what asset information have a massive financial impact later and experience required to carry out is available. on. If budgets are over estimated it highway tasks. And to understand how an asset is could be tempting to hold onto the reserve but this could be money that a Carriageway and footway widths council is able to allocate elsewhere, When measuring simple things like such as for children’s services. carriageway and footway widths it can On the flip side, if the measurements be easy to look at nominal widths, but were under estimated then a highways this can lead to huge inaccuracies. This team could be under funded and never is why getting the most accurate meet required performance indicators. surveys where the carriageway, Nothing is gained by an inaccurate footway and other assets are mapped contract. and spatially referenced is important. It also would not give confidence to It goes back to that 10% error point: senior managers or Section 151 officers getting this wrong in today’s financial that a highways team really climate could mean the difference
Rich data helps highways run efficiently GAIST understands its assets. For example, between a broader budget being in
24 transportation professional technical paper
as utility apparatus (telegraph poles of its current position and future plans and cabinets), highway electrical assets for the maintenance of the network. (street lighting and signals) and other If there are any uncertainties or assets (bollards, barriers and trees). anomalies in the information then the These can all have a significant tendering contractors will need to find impact on how the surface area of a ways to mitigate the risk. footway is calculated. Having accurate The most common way to mitigate data can also help authorities to any risk for a contractor would be to develop a picture of what they need to increase its costs. Given the various maintain for public use and where their lengths of contracts this could create liabilities are. over inflated costs, especially if they Sharing knowledge of your asset consider 25% error rates. base beyond the carriageways and footways cannot be under estimated. Conclusion Having quality, current, appropriate By being able to demonstrate a good and complete infrastructure asset understanding of asset data along with information will support the position sound repeatable condition data, a
Carriageway widths can fluctuate along the length of a road of knowledge that a highways team is highway authority can validate to a trying to provide in order to reduce the contractor the type of asset, how much place to look after vulnerable people in potential risks in future maintenance they have, where they are and just as vital services elsewhere. programmes and contracts. importantly how they are performing. Looking at the carriageway, the Having easily accessible data to hand image above shows how carriageway Lifecycle modelling would allow a highway authority to widths can fluctuate along its length. If These measurements have implications prove its confidence in the data, which using a standard nominal width when the data feeds into lifecycle would help to drive down the price of a measurement across the whole modelling and forward works contract, as there would be fewer carriageway length, you could be programmes, which enable potential unknowns in the system and therefore Marc Tite is an around 15% out on unclassified roads assistant director contractors to understand what are the reduce the risk. and as much as 25% out on the of professional asset management aims of a highway If you truly want to have better principal road network. services with authority. If your base data is not decisions that lead to better Gaist. He leads on For instance, looking at the junction accurate, any modelling carried out procurement, do not underestimate the Department mouths highlights huge variables in for Transport would not be right too and will give the the money that can be wasted from the widths, as well as things like laybys, funded ‘Digital highway authority incorrect data to inaccurate measurement data on parking bays and central reservations. Inspector’ trial and pass onto their stakeholders. existing networks. Ten percent specialises in asset You can see there are many nuances When talking about procurement inaccuracies could lead to an even management, when looking at a local road layout. lifecycle modelling and how all this data feeds into that greater strain on services (including and BIM. process we need to discuss risk, highways, but also elsewhere) that are Considering different uses particularly risk to the contractor. A already under huge pressure from a It is similar with footways, their widths bidding contractor would look to changing financial landscape. fluctuate along with their surface tender documentation to estimate the materials and condition. As can be seen extent to which the highway authority l Further details about asset from the photograph below the has a clear understanding of how its condition will feature in a CIHT footway consists of various widths. infrastructure is performing. webinar on 17 February at 1pm. The footway in the picture is in a Supplying the local authorities’ To take part, visit ciht.org.uk/events suburban location that has to contend highway infrastructure asset with multiple uses, such as vehicle management plan at this point in the Acknowledgement crossovers allowing local residents to process would allow the highways team This article has been peer reviewed by gain access to their properties, which to demonstrate a clear understanding the CIHT Asset Management Panel. increases the width and uses a different surface material. Moreover, grass verges to allow segregation between highway users create a narrower footpath which is often of bituminous construction. Providing access to public transport necessitates a change in footpath width, along with a flagged surface material and a raised kerb. The footway is also where a number Footways often feature varying of other assets are located which widths, as here in a impact the width of the footway, such suburban setting
February 2021 25 ciht news Qualified members celebrate success
Congratulations to all the CIHT members who Darren have achieved professional qualifications through Mitchell, Kajamugan the Institution recently. Remote interviews Velventhan continue to be conducted for CTPP, CEng, IEng and Catherine and EngTech reviews in light of the pandemic, with Downes over 100 applicants assessed in this way last year. Four individuals were recognised with awards for outstanding performance from the latest round of successful candidates, including three from Amey Consulting: CEng candidates Darren Mitchell and Kajamugan Velventhan and EngTech Senior engineer Kajamugan Velventhan – and my confidence at interview made me stand applicant Catherine Downes. based in Crawley – said he was “overwhelmed” to out to the panel. Mott MacDonald’s Zarith Sofia Magad – who is be recognised as an outstanding performer by “I also spoke about how I had taken ownership based in Singapore – was also named as an the Institution. of my own development with self learning and outstanding CEng candidate, and will be profiled “Practice makes perfect,” he said, offering CPD,” she said, adding: “preparation is key to a in a later issue of TP. advice to prospective candidates. “I prepared well good interview.” Commenting on his success, Motherwell based by practicing my presentation several times and Several members also achieved CTPP at the principal civil engineer Darren Mitchell said it had doing mock reviews with my colleagues.” latest round of professional review interviews. been “extremely hard work” but very rewarding to He also encouraged applicants not to be Among them was Alex Thomas, a senior transport achieve CEng and added: “The feeling of receiving nervous about the interview: “Treat this as a planner with Sweco, based in Glasgow, who said the confirmation email is something I will always discussion between three professional that the recognition has boosted his confidence remember.” engineers,” he said. and will encourage him to take on more He has already received a promotion since Senior technician in the consultant’s Liverpool challenges. gaining the qualification, and noted that his work traffic team Catherine Downes said she was He highlighted the value of finding a mentor to with local schools and STEM initiatives to help delighted to gain the EngTech qualification. “This identify any skills gaps in a candidate’s portfolio of inspire younger generations into the industry likely is something I have been working towards for a evidence. “It is important to maintain a detailed played a part in the outstanding candidate award. while and with two children, it was often difficult account of the projects in which you have been “My advice would be to identify any gaps in to find the time.” involved,” he added. experience early so they can be addressed to She hopes the achievement will lead to greater For more information about professional meet the requirements. Also, set a target date and responsibility in her role, and is now targeting qualifications visitciht.org.uk/education or contact stick to it,” he said. IEng status. “I think my passion for the industry [email protected]
Professional qualifications have recently been achieved by the following members:
Chartered Engineer (CEng) • Daniela Gabriela Mitru, Jacobs • Sarah-Jane Imrie, Northumberland Chartered Transport Planning • Stephen Andrews, Amey • Alex Morrell, Jacobs County Council Professional (CTPP) • Maria Bacon, Sweco • Alessandro Pagani, Jacobs • Jose Nunes dos Santos, • Nichola Byrne, WSP • Colin Edward Bell, WSP • Cameron Patterson, Jacobs Gloucestershire County Council • Peter Mark Conlan, Cundall • Paul Brown, Amey • Nuno Manuel Gonçalves Simão • Martinas Oertelis, WSP • Ross Andrew Coulthart, Sweco • Giulio Cabianca, Foster+Partners • Frankos Skarkalas, WSP • Max Reeve, Norfolk County Council • Antony Edward Kivistik, Mott • Dalton Cenac, Hillingdon Council • Vivian Skreka, WSP • Aaron Rosser, Skanska MacDonald • Dionysia Chatzirapti, WSP • Mohamed Tantawy, CDM Smith • Neil White, Amey • Deborah Anne Livingstone, Systra • Giacomo D’Angelo, AECOM • Konstantinos Vavatsoulas, Jacobs • Steven Wilson, Dundee City Council • Simon Lusby, City Science • Herve Etave, Arcadis Middle East • Kajamugan Velventhan, Amey Corporation • Arash Khojinian, Highways England • Samantha Whittaker, Highways Incorporated Engineer (IEng) • Damian Murray, Atkins • Zarith Sofia Ahmad Magad, Mott England • Oluwatoyin Oluwafemi Dada, Amey • Rosalyn Schaverien, Jacobs MacDonald • Michael Jack, Arcadis • Daniel Edward Sheppard, Arup • Liam McEvoy, Department for Engineering Technician (EngTech) • Rudolf Muller, Pell Frischmann • Alexander Anthony James Infrastructure • Nicola Breward, Pick Everard • Andrew Pearce, WSP Thomas, Sweco • Graeme McIntosh, Sweco • David Collins, Jacobs • Matthew David Thomas, • Avinash Menon, Koleko Solutions • Catherine Downes, Amey Warwickshire County Council • Darren Mark Peter Mitchell, Amey • Luke Houghton, AECOM
President: These pages are edited by Copy to be considered for Martin Tugwell FCIHT Steve Dale. To suggest stories publication in the next issue for CIHT News email: should be submitted by tel: 0207 336 1555 twitter: @CIHTUK Chief Executive: [email protected] Friday 19 February email: [email protected] web: ciht.org.uk Sue Percy CBE
26 transportation professional ciht news Better engagement needed over temporary street changes
Implementation of temporary street changes to Street space support active travel during Covid proved divisive was reallocated to cyclists in within communities and greater public the capital engagement will be needed on future schemes, a TEXTUREMASTER – SHUTTERSTOCK CIHT webinar heard in January. Introducing the session which focused on experience within the capital during the pandemic, CIHT Network Management & Operations Panel chair and London Councils director of transport and mobility Spencer Palmer said: “What has been achieved in a short space of time is unprecedented. “But it is fair to say it hasn’t all gone smoothly; doing things quickly inevitably means we won’t always get it right first time, and can cause a certain amount of public outcry.” consultation and there are lessons to be learned practitioners, but acknowledged that the The event heard that, across the capital, around public engagement. criticisms had merit in some cases. Transport for London’s ‘Streetspace’ plan has He added: “Part of the problem was that we “We need to get better at giving people the seen over 60km of new and upgraded cycling didn’t have a well informed, well evidenced opportunity to engage in these decisions,” he infrastructure delivered narrative ready around many of these schemes in said. “The ‘take home’ for me,” he added, “is that throughout the pandemic, advance. We now have a very large scale the public simply does not find it acceptable to with more in the pipeline. monitoring programme in the boroughs that drive out one morning and find a bollard; it Over 180 street space should give us all evidence about what works and doesn’t give them a feeling of ownership over reallocations were seen in what doesn’t.” where they live”. urban centres to aid social London Boroughs of Richmond and He added that public trust could start to be distancing and 96 low traffic Wandsworth’s assistant director of traffic and regained “if people see us responding and Spencer neighbourhoods were created. engineering Nick O’Donnell highlighted how the changing things as a consequence of post trial Palmer Transport for London’s head authority sought to deliver schemes that already implementation consultation”. of network sponsorship Sam Monck said evidence had strong supporting evidence, local or political The session was part of a CIHT webinar series shows low traffic neighbourhoods to be effective in support before the lockdown hit. on the impact of Covid on transport. reducing local car use, improving air quality and “The more evidence led you can be on See ciht.org.uk/events for more information. reducing casualties, and have enjoyed majority something the stronger the case you can make support from the public. But the “pace and scale” and the stronger politicians feel in being able to l Transport for London plans to appeal a High of their rollout angered some. defend decisions,” he said. Court judgment which in January ruled its Eight of the schemes implemented have since Mark Frost of Fern Consulting described how Streetspace plan and a bus only corridor on the been withdrawn in London. Sam said experience the public pushback against temporary active A10 Bishopsgate as “unlawful”, following a judicial over the last year has reinforced the importance of travel measures has created stress for many review brought by the taxi trade. Entries open for prestigious annual awards
Submissions for the CIHT Awards challenging time for our sector,” said diversity of experience and opinion. Detail of the criteria for each 2021 are now being welcomed across CIHT’s Director of Policy & Technical This year’s awards categories are category can be found on the 11 categories. Affairs Andrew Hugill. as follows: CIHT website. The deadline for Entering the Awards gives “A lot of organisations are doing • CIHT / Ringway Climate Change entries to the Awards is 15 March, organisations and projects in really important work and we want to Award after which a shortlist is due to be highways and transportation the celebrate that,” he added. • CIHT Collaboration Award announced in April. chance to celebrate their “Whatever contribution you make to • CIHT Creating Better Places Award Following positive feedback last achievements and showcase best the industry, there will be relevant • CIHT Employer of the Year Award year, shortlisted entrants are once practice, innovations and key categories for you.” • CIHT Engineering Award again set to be showcased contributions to society to a global Entries for the awards can be • CIHT Healthy Transport Award through a series of webinar audience. made free of charge via an online • CIHT Innovation of the Year Award events, before the winners are “This year more than any other, submissions platform. Projects of • CIHT International Award revealed in June. the Awards provide a great any size and in any location are • CIHT Road Safety Award For more information about the opportunity to highlight what you welcome to enter, and will be judged • CIHT Team of the Year Award Awards and details of how to enter have been doing through this by a panel of impartial judges with a • CIHT Transport Planning Award visit ciht.org.uk/awards
February 2021 27 ciht news Governance changes boost Council election opportunities
Members who are keen to put themselves forward and one for the Republic of Ireland. to serve on the CIHT Council are urged to submit - Up to six young professionals and a further their nomination for election online by 26 February, two representing Associate members: two of to mi-nomination.com/ciht the young professional vacancies on Council This comes as members are reminded of remain for the last two winners of the Young upcoming changes to CIHT’s governance Professional of the Year Award. The additional arrangements – including amendments to the four vacancies will be decided by the Royal Charter and Byelaws – which are set to be Nominations Panel and members are invited to introduced from June after receiving formal Privy put their names forward. SHUTTERPRODUCTIONS – SHUTTERSTOCK Council approval in November. 2. Members can stand for Council elections with Nominations are open for the elections The amendments mean there is an increased four supporters opportunity for members to make a difference and Reducing the number of supporters to four London) and new digital options are being influence the future of CIHT by becoming Council rather than eight will make it more attractive for adopted to improve accessibility. members. The following governance changes will a wider representation of members to run in the Council’s remit and responsibilities include affect representation on Council from the Council elections. advising the Board of Trustees on the strategic 2021-22 term: 3. Extend voting rights to Associates, Graduates, and professional direction of the Institution and 1. Increased number of Council members Apprentices and Part Time Students acting as a ‘sounding board’ for Trustees and This change will provide further diversification of The previous provision of voting members directors as part of policy development. skills and experience and include a wider range being only full Members and Fellows was not It also hosts outside speakers who contribute of membership grades. As a result, the following compatible with a progressive and inclusive to debates, helping to shape CIHT positioning on vacancies are available in the 2021 elections: Institution. specific issues. - Two additional Ordinary Member vacancies. In addition, Council’s role includes approving - Four additional Regional Member vacancies: All the recommendations accepted by the Privy nominations for Honorary Fellowships, awards and one extra vacancy from each devolved nation Council are detailed at: ciht.org.uk/news/ the appointment of Trustees. Members serve on and one from the Republic of Ireland. For the governance-review-recommendations-accepted/ Council for three years after which they can seek 2021 elections, two vacancies are available for Under the new governance arrangements, re-election for a further term. For more Wales, one for Scotland, one for Northern Ireland Council will meet three times a year (once outside information, contact [email protected] Spring Conference to explore future visions Diversity code signed Details are being firmed up for CIHT’s Spring reconfigure future policy and practice for the Conference which this year is set to focus on benefit of the environment and citizens. CIHT has signed the Tomorrow’s Engineers three key themes: ‘Climate’, ‘Places’ and The conference will explore how the sector will Code: a commitment to work towards ‘Innovation’. advance in the aftermath of the pandemic across common industry goals to increase the The three day virtual event takes place on 13 to the three themes, with focus on day one being diversity and number of young people entering 15 April and will provide delegates with the placed on decarbonisation and the steps needed engineering careers. chance to hear from leading thinkers, clients and to deliver on the UK’s net zero commitment. Signatories pledge to ensure young people politicians who are involved in shaping the future The second day will look at active travel, public have opportunities to engage in inspiring of transport. transport and the impacts of increased home engineering activities, promote a positive, It comes at a time when Covid presents the working, plus focus on the development of new compelling and authentic view of careers transportation sector with an opportunity to guidance for professionals including a revised within the profession, and help develop a
PETRMALINAK – SHUTTERSTOCK – PETRMALINAK Manual for Streets. shared understanding of what programmes Innovation will then be the theme of the final and activities work to attract diverse talent. day when digital changes, innovative thinking and CIHT’s Chief Executive Sue Percy said: future technologies will be discussed, and the “Signing the Tomorrow’s Engineers Code is workforce skills required to deliver these. another example of how we are supporting the In addition to the main programme, there will highways and transportation professionals of be the opportunity to visit ‘Major Project Rooms’ the future. The code resonates with our core and ‘Expert Booths’ where attendees can engage values of being professional, inclusive, with and learn from project managers and collaborative and progressive. technical specialists. “We have been at the forefront of raising Speakers are set to be confirmed for the event diversity and inclusion up the agenda across shortly. To stay up to date with all the latest the profession and look forward to working details on the conference, visit: ciht.org.uk/event/ with the code community to promote these Decarbonisation will be a major talking point spring-conference-2021/ important messages.”
28 transportation professional events
Webinars Networking
CIHT members can access a wealth of online resources including webinars. For further event listings, visit Log in to the Members’ area at ciht.org.uk and click on ‘Resources’. ciht.org.uk/events
Mobility during the pandemic Data driven urban mobility Light rail conference 18 February, 12.30pm 25 March 18 - 19 May, Newcastle Considering how cycling, walking Use of data for connected and Including a look at and green spaces can be used to automated mobility, real time modernisation and expansion best effect at the current time, plus passenger information and of the Tyne & Wear Metro a look at behavioural shifts. advanced traffic management. eventbrite.co.uk eventbrite.co.uk globalmasstransit.net Future logistics event Commissioner Will Norman Role of buses to help Artificial intelligence 30 June - 1 July, Farnborough revive towns and cities Improving transport accessibility and machine learning Former astronaut Tim Peake will 19 February and growing active travel 29 March, 9am offer some space related ideas that Including a look at next steps to 2 March, 9am - 1pm A look at next steps for these may help solve logistics challenges develop a national bus strategy to Including input from London’s technologies and the role they can on the ground. help the travel mode recover. walking and cycling commissioner, play in recovering from Covid. futurelogistics2020.vfairs.com landor.co.uk Transport for All and Sport England. insight-conference.com westminsterforumprojects.co.uk Intelligent Transport Systems Delivering local infrastructure World Congress Barking Riverside extension projects to boost growth 11 - 15 October, Hamburg 10 March, 4.30pm 31 March A showcase of smart mobility A discussion about the London Featuring speakers from the solutions for the sector. Overground project designed Ministry of Housing, Communities itsworldcongress.com to support new housing and job & Local Government and the All creation in Essex. Party Parliamentary Group on Intertraffic conference thepwi.org Infrastructure. 29 March - 1 April 2022, insidegovernment.co.uk Amsterdam Transport in Cork Nationally significant Focusing on developments in traffic Role of regional cities infrastructure projects Compulsory purchase for major management, infrastructure and 23 - 24 February 22 - 25 March infrastructure road safety. How smaller conurbations including Guidance to help those taking 27 April intertraffic.com Cork, Coventry and Perth are forward applications for and the Hear about latest guidance on the attracting people to live, work delivery of large projects. best approaches to take when and visit. waterfrontconferencecompany.com considering a land acquisition. academyofurbanism.org.uk waterfrontconferencecompany.com Future of planning policy Delivering environmentally in England Climate change policy in Scotland sensitive projects 25 March, 9am - 1pm 3 June, 9am - 1pm 24 February, 12.30pm Featuring an examination of the Including discussion of priorities for Ensuring ways in which biodiversity ‘Planning for the Future’ White Paper the COP26 event in Glasgow and can be fully considered on rail and a look at Government priorities the pathway to decarbonisation infrastructure schemes. for policy reform. and net zero. PWILLIAMS1 apm.org.uk westminsterforumprojects.co.uk scotlandpolicyconferences.co.uk Cyclists in Amsterdam
Rewind: Listen again to CIHT webinars held recently
Visit the Members’ area at ciht.org.uk to access these events and others.
Putting pedestrians first Liverpool flyovers deconstruction Pavement skid resistance A presentation led by CIHT Republic Looking at the recent investigation, Hear from senior highway of Ireland discussing the importance assessment and removal of two consultant Ian Walsh about latest of considering those on foot when post tensioned concrete viaducts. developments in the field. Organised delivering transport plans. Organised by CIHT Northern Ireland. by CIHT North West.
What has Covid changed? Electric scooter trials Active travel in Edinburgh Three events exploring what impact A presentation from Beryl Bikes A look at projects in the Scottish the pandemic has had on the about its rental schemes in Norwich capital designed to make conditions transport sector and some of the and on the Isle of Wight. Hosted by One of Liverpool’s Churchill Way more favourable for walkers and new opportunities presented. CIHT East of England. flyovers before it was removed cyclists.
February 2021 29 directory
Audits Vehicle Activated Signs
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WEEKLY NEWS Pr te ur c n t ver tr ns rt ti n r fessi n s ever ee e icate e ail new letter r t e in ra tructure in u try r i ing u t ate new an intelligence e ulting in ig rea er i en rate an rele ant click through traffi c. e t ete e i s th h the e te c n cts se ices e ents with iet ti ns Banner an S n r i E it rial ca e tu ie ecruit ent acancie en ay an Training P ca t an i e
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the et i s e se c nt ct e ci i ect w inh s e [email protected]
30 transportation professional recruitment
YourYour nextnext movemove inin transportation?transportation?
A wide range of opportunities
Recruiters: Reach over 13,000 transportation professionals Jobseekers: Promote your vacancies to a relevant industry audience: Are you looking for the next step forward in your career? P Online with CIHTJobs.com P In print via Transportation Professional P Visit CIHTjobs.com for P Through email on TP Weekly News our e-newsletter companies looking to recruit now
P Register to receive our email Increase your vacancies reach and exposure through enhanced options and newsletter keeping you up to packages complementing each other and supporting excellent marketing date on jobs and market news routes for you to engage with CIHT members and the wider market. P Apply online through CIHTjobs cihtjobs.com gives you: Features include: to quickly reach employers P A unique audience P Optimised search engine P Quality candidates P Industry recruitment news P Target specialists P Featured job postings P Great value packages P Recruiter directory P Transparent tracking P Recruiter profiles
To promote your jobs call Kirsty Barrett on 01892 524468 cihtjobs.com or email [email protected] Where new starts begin
February 2021 31 Reducing Carbon The specification in Highways challenge
Rubber ULT I LOW modified asphalt ULT I PAVE Low temperature warm Turning old tyres into Single layer 20mm asphalt for mix asphalt new roads fast, single layer resurfacing
To help meet the modern-day challenges in highways construction, Tarmac have developed a range of innovative, market leading asphalt products designed to curb the threat of climate change. Our own challenge is to now lead the charge in achieving wider industry adoption.
Warm mix Warm mix low temperature asphalts have been available for some years, but at asphalt present only 4-5% of total UK asphalt is laid using this technology. Compare that to reduces CO2 the United States who are nearer 50%. Opening the door to potential on site cost by 10-12% savings over traditional hot mixes and offering significant carbon reducing sustainability benefits, why wouldn’t you talk to us about our Ultilow range of products?
8% saving Tarmac have also seized the opportunity to go full circle by re-purposing in CO2 emissions some of the 40 million waste tyres that the UK disposes of each year; 500 tyres producing a high performing rubber modified asphalt that delivers up to recycled per km an 8% saving in CO2 emissions. This ensures that for every kilometre of road surfaced using this material, approximately 500 tyres are being recycled.
Fast, single Completing the offering is Ultipave Single Layer, Tarmac’s layer surfacing 20mm asphalt for fast, single layer resurfacing that reduces the reliance on high volumes of premium sizes of primary aggregate and excessive transportation costs.
Building our future
Highways construction can be sustainable. Talk to us... Telephone: 07973 853763 or visit: tarmac.com/products/asphalt/sustainable-asphalt/