We are pleased to share that National Highways has awarded the EKFB A43 scheme works near Brackley with a HS2 record high 99% audit score. In September, National Highways paid visit to our A43 island site which diverts the A43 in both directions around our work site.
The A43, which links Oxford, Brackley and Northampton, is a vital route that provides access to Silverstone and connections between the M40 and M1. While foundation works for HS2’s A43 bridge are taking place, it was essential that these works and diversions were as un-disruptive as possible for road users.
As part of the audit, National Highways assessors travel as a passenger through road schemes each month to provide an assessment of the works taking place. Assessments are based on their objective observations and subjective perceptions as well as feedback on how safe they felt.
This month, EKFB and Kier have been singled out for the first time ever for gaining 99% on the perception score, putting them first place out of the 24 NH schemes that were assessed. In addition, 100% was achieved for the safety score.
There were outstanding comments from National Highways following the Senior Leadership Health & Safety site tour. Some of the feedback included excellent management of site, making it one of the most organised which they have seen, a happy workforce and good mud control.
National Highways was also impressed with the provision provided for our female facilities and reported no concerns at all on the scheme as a whole.
Tim Boardman, Senior Project Manager for Kier Transportation said : “The A43 Island site is a highly constrained site with some resultant logistical challenges. Timely and transparent collaboration with EKFB colleagues and key stakeholders (National Highways) has enabled us to develop safe and efficient solutions.”
“Our primary focus has always been and will remain safety; both that of our workforce and our customers. We have developed temporary works solutions to deliver the structure whilst also endeavouring to mitigate the impact upon the travelling public.”
EKFB’s Head of Interfaces Anita Solanki said: “All who work with National Highways and on the A43 are absolutely delighted with this feedback. This is an excellent example of successful collaboration as we continue to plan future activities and consents.”