News

M25 Shortlisted for Project Team of the Year at the Highways Awards

We’re delighted to announce that Connect Plus, Connect Plus Services, M Group, Tarmac and Techjoint have been shortlisted for Project Team of the Year at the Highways Awards 2026 for our Collaborative Transformation of M25 Pavement Asset Management programme.

The nomination recognises the success of our One Community approach, bringing together Connect Plus, CPS and our supply chain partners to transform how pavement assets are planned and delivered across the M25.

Working as a single integrated team, we moved from traditional condition-led planning to a preservation-first approach that delivers greater value from investment. By combining AI-enabled inspections, improved data standards and a bespoke optimisation tool with early contractor involvement, the team has transformed the pavement planning process and improved delivery certainty.

The programme has achieved a tenfold increase in pavement preservation activity, helping to prevent deterioration, reduce disruption and maximise whole-life value. Planning processes have also been significantly streamlined, enabling faster decision-making and stronger programme confidence.

This recognition reflects the dedication and teamwork of everyone involved.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone involved!

The Highways Awards will take place on 23rd September. 🎉

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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, AtkinsRĂ©alis 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/