News

Highway Heroes Award Finalists

We are proud to announce that Kate Sillcock, Keith Hughes, the Breaking Barriers Working Group and Lacey Nash have been shortlisted for the prestigious Heroes Awards 2026.

These unique awards recognise those who go above and beyond their duty to help others and make a positive difference in their team and communities.

Keith and Kate have both been shortlisted following their response after identifying a potentially serious situation. They acted quickly to protect both the individual and road users, coordinating an emergency response while providing calm reassurance and support. Their compassion and professionalism ensured the individual received the help they needed.

The Breaking Barriers Working Group has been recognised for their commitment to driving meaningful cultural change. Through the successful delivery of the Breaking Barriers programme and conference, the group has championed inclusion and helped create a more accessible and supportive environment for colleagues across both frontline and office-based roles. Their work is already influencing positive change across the business and wider industry.

Lacey Nash has been shortlisted for a Rising Star Award in recognition of her work establishing the Connect Plus Carers Affinity Group. Bringing together carers from across the Connect Plus joint venture, Lacey has created a safe, supportive network for employees balancing work with significant caring responsibilities. Drawing on her own experiences as a carer, she has built a community where colleagues feel heard and supported.

Being shortlisted against nominees from across the country is a huge achievement. Congratulations to Keith, Kate, Lacey and the entire Breaking Barriers Working Group on this well-deserved recognition.

The awards ceremony will take place on 30th November.

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Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services:

  • In 2009, National Highways awarded Connect Plus a 30-year contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads. It continues to be National Highways’ flagship public finance initiative (PFI) and is the largest highways PFI project ever awarded in the UK.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Investment Partners - 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, AtkinsRéalis and Egis.
  • With a workforce of 780 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.
  • For further information please visit: https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/