CPS raises the bar for considerate construction

The Considerate Constructor Scheme (CCS) has awarded Connect Plus Services (CPS) excellent and exceptional scoring against each of the categories – appearance, community, environment, safety and workforce.

The Scheme looks at the measures an organisation has put in place to be more considerate towards local neighbourhoods and the public, the workforce, and the environment.

Following an independent audit at the end of November, the CCS monitor said that “much of the Considerate Constructor Scheme Code is part of the company’s ethos and its working practices”.

A number of initiatives were highlighted in the Considerate Constructors Scheme’s report, which included CPS’s Mental Health First Aid training and the installation of a defibrillator in each depot.

CPS’s corporate social responsibility initiative, Adopt a School, was also recognised following this year’s activities involving our staff and the supply chain. The Culture Club and its goal to promote diversity and inclusion was also praised.

The business’ delivery of the Code of Conduct has seen CPS receive several accolades for “performance beyond compliance” since we first registered in 2009.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

Give gritters space to work

They have flashing amber beacons, are 2.5 metres wide and are bright orange but last year 12 Highways England gritters were driven into in the south East of England.

Gritters weigh up to 26 tonnes and when they’re spreading salt travel at 40mph. They often travel in the middle lane of a motorway to ensure the right amount of salt is spread to all lanes.

Highways England’s national winter and severe weather leader in the south east Dominic Haydon, said:

“Although the vast majority of people support our gritter drivers by leaving a sensible distance and only passing when it’s safe to do so, we do have occasions when people misjudge the situation and end up colliding with one of our vehicles.

“We have also noticed a growing problem with driver using the hard shoulder to undertake gritters, risking a collision with stationary vehicles on the hardshoulder and causing a hazard to gritter drivers who need to exit at motorway junctions.

“During severe weather it’s really important that we keep traffic moving and our gritters are out on the network enabling us to do that.”

The back of a gritter is the most vulnerable area as it’s where the salt spreading equipment is located. If it’s struck it can mean the gritter has to be taken off the road to be repaired, which is costly and could affect critical services in extreme weather condition

Dominic added:

“We are doing what we can to improve the visibility of our fleet and we are rolling out a number of new vehicles, starting last month in East Anglia, which include a large rear chevron panel which will improve the visibility.”

Gritter drivers often feel vulnerable while out on the network due to the reduced speeds of 30 and 40mph that they have to travel. In the south east there were 12 incidents where people crashed into our gritters which meant they had to be taken off the roads to be repaired.

Richard O’Keeffe, Service Delivery Manager at Connect Plus Services, said:

“Our fleet of gritters stand ready to treat the M25 strategic road network and keep traffic moving safely if severe weather strikes. We rely on the goodwill of motorists to give our maintenance crews the space they need to work, and remind people to pass gritters safely if you see them on the road.”

During severe weather drivers are urged to follow this advice:
• In snow and ice, drivers should stick to the main roads where they can and only travel if necessary
– drivers are also encouraged to make sure they have a winter kit in their vehicle, including an ice scraper and de-icer, warm clothes and blankets and sunglasses to cope with the low winter sun.
• In high winds, there’s a particular risk to lorries, caravans and motorbikes, so drivers should slow down and avoid using exposed sections of road if possible
• In heavy rain, drivers should keep well back from the vehicle in front, gradually ease off the accelerator if the steering becomes unresponsive, and slow down if the rain and spray from vehicles makes it difficult to see and be seen
• In fog, drivers should switch on their fog lights and not use lights on full beam as the fog will reflect the light back. If you really cannot see, you should consider stopping until it is safe to continue

Drivers are advised to follow messages on the overhead signs and listen to radio updates. Further information can be found by visiting the www.highways.gov.uk/traffic or calling the Highways England Information Line on 0300 123 5000.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

Written by Robert Haddow, North West Operations and Maintenance Manager.

“The date was 8th August 2005, I was an 18-year-old on Platform 1, Poole Train Station, waiting to get the next train to Lichfield, Staffordshire, to start a career in the military. Since leaving school, I had worked a few jobs but nothing really appealed to me – I wanted a challenge. My dad had recently finished a very successful 24 years’ service in the Royal Marines, so I decided to join up myself.

It was something that appealed to me as soon as I made a few enquiries and chose to enlist within the Corps of Royal Engineers to acquire trade qualifications. I thought I would do the minimum of 4 years and leave with a trade, however ended up leaving after 13 years with all the qualities to build on my success.

After finishing my training and trade requirements I immediately put myself forward for the All Arms Commando Course to earn the right to wear the coveted ‘Green Beret’ and serve within Commando Forces. I passed my Commando Course, and in the process developed the attitude and outlook that would stand me in good stead for the rest of my career and life.

The next 10 years took me around the globe, ranging from an Operational tour of Afghanistan, the sub-zero climates of the Arctic Circle, and the jungles of Malaysia to name a few. I also had the fantastic opportunity to work with Special Forces in both Africa and South America during this time. The experience I gained has been paramount in my development as Commander, enabling me to think strategically while managing teams and crisis situations in a variety of different environments.

The last two years of my military career was spent as an Instructor at the Royal Engineer Boat School. I was extremely fortunate that I had a good management team that continuously challenged and developed me as a Senior Manager while helping me realise my potential. I was given several high-profile assignments, most notably incorporating new training models which drove expenditure savings that will have a lasting effect on the school for years to come.

So why leave then, you’re probably asking? My priorities have changed in the last two years of service; I met my wife Emma and am pleased to say we are expecting our first children… twins, in the near future. We have settled in Essex and I no longer want to spend 6 months of the year away from family, therefore I put in my Notice to Terminate my contract.

In the months that followed I was assigned various courses and workshops with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP). The CTP is the official provider for Armed Forces personnel going through resettlement. They offer career transition advice and training opportunities while giving every Armed Forces leaver resettlement support. All courses are free and this is truly a fantastic organisation that every Service leaver should take advantage of. The biggest advice that I took away from these opportunities was to ‘never undersell yourself’.

The CTP also organises job fairs across the country which is a great opportunity for Service leavers to network with potential employers and to find out about different sectors. This is where I first came into contact with Balfour Beatty, who would become my employer. Balfour Beatty signed the Armed Forces covenant in 2015 and are a forces-friendly employer. They really understand the transferable skills we can bring to the construction sector, offering employment opportunities for Service leavers and veterans. I spoke with Balfour Beatty’s representative and sent them my CV.

A couple of weeks later I was contacted by Connect Plus Services, of which Balfour Beatty is a parent company, and asked if I was available for an interview. Connect Plus Services (CPS) operates and maintains the M25 network, including all adjoining trunk and slip roads on behalf of Highways England and Connect Plus.

After two successful interviews and delivering a presentation, I was offered a position as Operations and Maintenance Manager, which I immediately accepted. I have been very much welcomed into the Balfour Beatty and CPS organisations, have already been on numerous training courses to enhance my learning and have been given a development plan which has a clear timeline to coincide with promotional opportunities. I really could not have asked for a better first couple of months.

I wanted to share my story, as I know how difficult ‘the jump’ can be back into the civilian sector. Every member of the Armed Forces offers so much to civilian employers, and the Career Transition Partnership provides great support and advice while making the transition. They help and assist you along the way while organising many Job Fairs with civilian employers who recruit Service leavers.

Connect Plus Services and Balfour Beatty actively seek to recruit service leavers as they know the skill set and work ethic that we can provide. Balfour Beatty has a vibrant ex-Forces community and the company are keen to receive applications of personnel who are in their resettlement phase.

If you’re interested in joining the team that keeps the M25 moving, contact enquiries@www.connectplusm25.co.uk/”

Connect Plus Services trials hydrogen car on M25 network

Connect Plus Services (CPS), the company which operates and maintains the M25 on behalf of Highways England and Connect Plus, the M25’s design, build, finance and operations consortium comprising Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK, has teamed up with Toyota to trial a hydrogen fuel-cell car on the M25 network.

Utilising the expertise of Balfour Beatty’s Plant and Fleet business, who arranged temporary procurement of the vehicle, a Toyota Mirai, CPS has successfully trialled the world’s first commercially produced hydrogen-powered vehicle to operate on a live highways maintenance network. The vehicle carried out daily motorway safety inspections during a two week trial that took place in September.

The trial results will now be assessed and, if positive, it is envisioned that CPS will roll out the use of hydrogen-fuel vehicles across its fleet of 12 cars that carry out motorway safety inspections on the strategic road network.

Fuel-cell technology in vehicles converts pressurised hydrogen gas, stored in built-in tanks, into energy that powers an electric motor.

The only waste product is water, providing significant benefits for the environment and road user’s wellbeing when compared to the environmental footprint left by petrol and diesel fueled cars. The use of a hydrogen car also offers savings in reduced fuel costs.

Brian Johns, Managing Director of Connect Plus Services, said: “We are delighted to have trialled the hydrogen powered Toyota Mirai on our network. This is a prime example of how we are embracing new technology to deliver our contract to the highest standard.

“Through continuous innovation, we are committed to developing cost effective and environmentally friendly solutions to drive the network forward and create better journeys for the travelling public.”

Jon Hunt, Manager of Alternative Fuels at Toyota, added: “We are delighted to support this trial to demonstrate that the Mirai, with a quick refill time and long range is a no-compromise zero emission solution.”

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

CPS in Bloom

CPS in Bloom took place at a number of schools around our M25 network – including West Ashtead Primary School in Leatherhead, Holy Cross Primary School in Thurrock, and The Dartford Bridge Primary School in Dartford.

Each school received a £200 voucher from us so they could purchase garden equipment and anything else they wanted for the planting area. Volunteers visited the schools to brighten up their play areas by planting flowers and vegetables for the children to enjoy.

Leatherhead – In celebration of a young 7-year-old pupil whose life was tragically ended prematurely due to cancer, CPS has been involved in building a pond in the school grounds. Volunteers were then invited to come back and assist the parents association with weeding and planting around the pond.

Thurrock – The Holy Cross Primary School is in a deprived area and currently classed as having the highest obesity rate in the borough. The school was keen to educate the children about healthy eating and felt that showing children the complete process from planting to plate would support their understanding. With this in mind, we offered to assist with weeding and planting vegetables around the school’s grounds.

Dartford – We visited the Dartford Bridge Primary School and began by clearing allotments that were filled with weeds. While doing this, we found three small frogs and the children happily took them to the school pond. The allotments were then filled with manure and compost, and flowers and vegetable seeds were planted.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

#RaisingTheBar and inspiring more girls into engineering

Connect Plus Services is celebrating this year’s International Women in Engineering Day with a variety of activities taking place across the business.

The annual national awareness day provides the opportunity for businesses to celebrate their year-round commitment to raising the profile of women in engineering and the career opportunities available in the sector.

Today saw three inspirational women from Connect Plus Services join forces with Longfield Academy, in Kent, to engage the next generation of women as they begin to make important decisions on their future career paths.

Hooi Lee, Senior Structures Engineer, Kelly Butterworth, Planner, and Cintia Bailey, Communications Business Partner, discussed their route into the industry, explained the importance of having a diverse workforce, and opened the floor to questions.

The young women were particularly interested to understand more about the PPE requirements and a typical day in the life of an engineer.

Activities will continue across the business over the coming days as Connect Plus Services continues to engage and inspire the workforce.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

Network excellence – Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS)

When the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) visits one of our depots, the monitor assesses our commitment to the Code of Considerate Conduct, specifically the areas of Appearance, Community, Environment, Safety and Workforce.

In March, CCS re-visited Swanley and Denham and, once again, both depots received excellent and exceptional scores.

In Swanley, the monitor noted that there is a consistent commitment to engage the entire workforce in social activities and to promote both safety and environmental practices. "This level of commitment demonstrates the all-embracing support given towards considerate practice".

In Denham, it was reported that the depot is complying with the very highest standards of industry good practice and aims of the scheme. "The comprehensive and well-maintained welfare facilities remain in place; they continue to be well stocked and almost sparkle".

Well done to the teams for your efforts in improving the image of construction.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

International Women’s Day

We were so pleased to host another incredible International Women’s Day in some of our depots. And for a good cause too!

CPS celebrated International Women’s Day with lunch, following a callout to help support Reigate and Banstead Women’s Aid with donations.

It was great to see our staff coming to learn more about Diversity & Inclusion and for taking the time to understand the work they do at the refuge centre.

It is not just a women’s issue but a human rights issue.

It is not just a women’s issue but a human rights issue.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

1 million hours – and a Blue Star

Last week was a very challenging week but also a very positive one. We achieved the 1 million hour mark – both RIDDOR and lost time injury FREE.

A Blue Star is given when exceptional performance is highlighted by an independent Health & Safety inspection.

This is a major achievement and testament to the emphasis that the M25 DBFO and its supply chain partners place on Health and Safety, and also the hard work of everyone within the business to ensure a safe working environment as they strive to achieve Zero Harm.

Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

“Exceptional level of respect is shown to the community” at Dartford

Dartford Depot welcomed monitor Diana from the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) at the end of January to assess five key performance areas: Appearance, Community, Environment, Safety and Workforce.

In this CCS third visit, Diana was pleased to announce that “it is great to see this project performing to such a high standard” with continued performance levels of two ‘excellent’ and three ‘exceptional’.

It was also noted that the “arrangements in place to secure everyone’s safety are exceptional”  along with our “appearance of being an excellent standard, with a very positive first impression created, and an exceptional level of respect is shown to the community”.

Well done to Matt and all the team at Dartford for maintaining our CCS standards.

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Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

“Exceptional” safety culture and welfare facilities at Blunts Farm

Our Blunts Farm depot welcomed back the Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) monitor last week. During this visit, it was noted that the site promotes an “exceptional image of the industry with a well-presented workplace”.
Scoring us against the latest checklist, the monitor said that environmental performance is managed to an “excellent level” and an exceptional safety culture is “evident”.

Well done Carl and our Blunts team for maintaining your brilliant score.

(Any site that registers with the Scheme makes a commitment to meet the minimum requirements of the Scheme’s Code of Considerate Practice in these categories: appearance, community, environment, safety and workforce)
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Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25

Leatherhead “continues to impress”

Leatherhead welcomed back Considerate Constructor Scheme monitor Paul in December, for his seventh visit to the Surrey-based depot.

In a recent report, Paul scored the depot an impressive 43 (of 50), which sees Leatherhead retain its Performance Beyond Compliance rating.

As always, the depot was assessed for its performance against the Code of Considerate Construction: Care about Appearance; Respect the Community; Protect the Environment; Secure everyone’s Safety and; Value their Workforce.

A score of eight demonstrates performing to an excellent standard well beyond the minimum requirements of the Scheme’s Code of Considerate Practice.

Leatherhead has scored eight in both Appearance and Workforce category, with the monitor noting how the business promotes “a positive industry image” through its unobtrusive appearance and social media presence and commending the approach to supporting an increasingly diverse workforce.

A score of nine is awarded when a company is “at the forefront of industry best practice demonstrating the very highest level of achievement far above the minimum standards required by the Scheme’s Code, addressing all applicable areas of the Checklist to the very highest standards.” Leatherhead has achieved this Exceptional score for Environment, Community and Safety, and Paul summarised his visit saying “the depot continues to impress with its thoughtful approach to continually improving performance.”

Depot manager, Alana Murphy, is understandably delighted with her scoring.

“This is the second visit from the Considerate Constructor Scheme that I have hosted, and I’m delighted that the improvements we have made have been recognised. This score is a credit to everyone here at Leatherhead, and from the wider business, who have worked so hard to achieve it.

“Thank you Paul, and the CCS, for your continued support – I look forward to welcoming you back to see the further improvements we will make over the coming months, to demonstrate our commitment to being a considerate constructor.”

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Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25