Branch History
The institution of Highway Engineers was formed in 1930 and not long before the Second World War broke out, two Branches – the Midland and the Northern were inaugurated. It was not until the War ended that the third branch the South West, appeared in 1948.
The Northern Branch existed through the War years to 1949. However, with membership of the Institution rising fast, it was time to split the Branch to form the North Eastern and North Western Branches. Just three years later in 1952 the then North Eastern Branch was further split to form the current North Eastern Branch and the Yorkshire and Humber Branch
The branch has a distinguished list of chairmen, many of whom have been recognised for the service given to the Institution and to highways and transportation. A list of past Chairmen can be found here:
Whilst the list of past chairmen fills a full page, amazingly just two names form a complete list of Secretaries: from 1952 Steven Plews served 29 years in the role handing over to John Jeffrey the present Branch Secretary in 1981.
Over the years the branch has celebrated a number of notable events such a Branch Anniversaries and the making of great engineering achievements; more details of our Golden Jubilee celebrations in 2002 can be found here:
In addition a number of similar events are planned over the coming years:
- 2011 Transporter Bridge Centenary
- 2012 Branch Diamond Jubilee
We are currently planning for the North Eastern Branch diamond jubilee celebration. If you would like to contribute your ideas of how we can mark this occasion, the Branch Committee would be happy to consider your ideas.