ICE “This is Civil Engineering” campaign launch: 13-24 April
The “This is Civil Engineering” campaign, launched by Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), sees huge banners displayed on 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.
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.
The A138 Chelmer Viaduct is being developed by civil engineers GRAHAM for the Highways England (prior to 1 April the Highways Agency) and when completed will improved traffic capacity. The £28m investment involves the construction of the new viaduct and the demolition of the existing viaduct, building three lanes of carriageway, a shared footway and cycleway and a new footpath.
It 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.
The banner was put in place last month to coincide with a turf cutting ceremony carried out by Catherine Brookes, Regional Director of the then Highways Agency East. She said: "Extra capacity along the viaduct will deliver significant economic benefits for both local businesses and motorists while helping to improve road safety.
"The existing Chelmer Viaduct is in a poor condition, although we're content it remains safe for use at the moment.”
"We have worked hard with our contractor to plan the work carefully to minimise disruption and are engaging with those affected to ensure they're aware of the work."
GRAHAM Construction managing director Alan Bill added: “GRAHAM are delighted to be working with the Highways Agency to safeguard the A138 as a strategic highway link. Throughout the duration of this project we, as we do on all of our contracts, will work with the local supply chain and use subcontractors and suppliers from across the region as well as engaging with the local community to ensure there is minimal disruption during the course of this project."
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