News

This is civil engineering, says ICE as it steps up Election campaign

The M54 Junction 3 to 4 improvement scheme in Telford has joined a special nationwide campaign to show the public the positive impact civil engineering has on their lives and show policymakers of all parties why they should continue to invest in the country’s infrastructure.

The “This is Civil Engineering” campaign, launched today by Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), sees huge banners displayed on 20 infrastructure projects across the UK telling the public what civil engineering is, but also making a clear link between the work taking place and how it will benefit the community. 

“This is a fantastic project offering huge benefits to the community - it really shines a light on civil engineering and its importance to society and this is exactly what we are trying to illustrate through this campaign," Yvonne Aust, ICE Shropshire

The initiative forms part of ICE’s wider Commit to Infrastructure General Election campaign, and the leading engineering body is hoping it will serve as a reminder that long term investment in infrastructure improves quality of life for the public, regenerates communities and creates jobs. Banners to up on the Victoria Station Upgrade and Chelsea Bridge improvements in London today, close the heart of Westminster.

The M54 Junction 3 to 4 improvement scheme is being delivered by Costain and EM Highways and when complete will prevent any risk of cross-over collisions and improve safety for motorway users.  The scheme joins a host of other civil engineering projects around the country also raising their banners as part of the campaign launch fortnight. Other projects are also highlighting their benefits via social media forums such as Twitter and Instagram.

ICE Shropshire Branch chair Yvonne Aust, unveiled the banner at a launch event at the site, also attended by Costain general foreman Mark Blackburn;  Costain project manager Tony Lewis and EM Highways stakeholder liaison manager Andy Wilson.

 “This is a fantastic project offering huge benefits to the community - it really shines a light on civil engineering and its importance to society and this is exactly what we are trying to illustrate through this campaign. I am grateful to Costain and EM Highways for getting involved,” Aust said.

 “Costain has a long and established relationship with ICE and we are pleased to be supporting this campaign,” said Jones. “Civil engineers deliver vital infrastructure for the country and we hope that on the M54 Junction 3 to 4 Improvement scheme we can play our part in highlighting to the public the important role they play.”

If you would like to contact Jackie Whitelaw about this, or any other story, please email jackie.whitelaw@infrastructure-intelligence.com.