Marlborough Highways was proud to sponsor the Institute of Highway Engineers (IHE) Greater London Branch Conference and 2nd AGM, held on Thursday, 5th September, 2024, at London South Bank University. This year’s event brought together approximately 40 delegates, including industry suppliers, local authorities, students, and contractors, to explore the theme of innovation in the highways sector.
Opened by Josh Le Boutillier of Metis Consulting and the IHE Greater London Branch Committee, the conference featured an array of insightful presentations, including talks from university staff, manufacturers, and service providers, as well as from key partner organisations like Transport for London and civil engineering specialists, Metis Consulting. Representing Marlborough at the event were Mark Ellerington, Lauren Stapleton, and Jack Staines of the company’s Bids team, with the organisation sponsoring the delegate lunch.
There were four topical sessions, with not only the theme of innovation explored, but also the subjects of sustainability, safety, and automation. Mark Ellerington, an IHE Greater London Branch committee member, had the pleasure of chairing the third session, which specifically examined the crucial issue of ‘materials within our industry’. Joined on stage by Alex Cropley of Low Carbon Materials, and Moshiur Islam and Foysal Abu Naser of London South Bank University, Mark led an insightful conversation about advances in technology, the application of new materials in modern infrastructure, and the complexities of balancing innovation with regulatory requirements.
Following the conference, the IHE held its Annual General Meeting, giving senior members an opportunity to collaborate and to discuss the key challenges and opportunities facing the sector. It concluded an enjoyable and productive day, with the event providing a valuable platform for industry professionals to connect, learn, and to inspire one another.
Mark Ellerington, Bids Director, Marlborough Highways, said, “It was a privilege to sponsor and be part of an event that brought together such a diverse group of highways professionals, all united by a shared goal: to drive progress and innovation within our industry. The discussions around sustainability, safety, and new technologies were both inspiring and thought-provoking, and I am grateful to the IHE and all those who contributed. It’s through collaboration like this that we can deliver lasting change, and better serve the communities in which we operate.”