The orbital network of Greater London, the M25 was opened by Margaret Thatcher, then Prime Minister on 29 October 1986. The M25 has been a continual talking point for both commuters and commentators around the country ever since.

Often unfairly derided, the M25 has undoubtedly provided substantial advantages for society as a whole. The economic and social benefits of a dedicated orbital motorway around the capital spread far wider than the immediate area of London and the South East of England. The network still provides improved connections for communities and businesses to a carry out their daily lives.

CIHT President David Gillham said:

“CIHT is proud to have been associated with the construction of the M25 and the rest of the UK’s Motorway Network. The Institution’s members continue to plan, design, build and maintain the UK’s network to this day.”

“Transport infrastructure continues to play a vital role across the whole spectrum of society with an impact on both economic and social development. There is a need, especially under the current financial constraints to provide a balanced investment programme that focuses on transport infrastructure. This will retain and create jobs and provide a major catalyst to the economic recovery and growth of the nation.”

CIHT has marked the occasion with an extensive supplement in the October 2011 edition of Transportation Professional “The M25 at 25”. This supplement contains interviews and comment with and from many of the key people who were involved in the delivery of the original M25 project and those still working on it today.

A copy of this supplement can be found here M25 at 25

ENDS

Notes for Editors

Chartered Institution of Highways & Transportation

CIHT is a membership organisation representing over 12,000 people who work in the highways and transportation sector.

CIHT members plan, design, build, operate and maintain best-in-class transport systems and infrastructure, whilst respecting the imperatives of improving safety, ensuring economic competitiveness and minimising environmental impact.

CIHT supports its member’s professional endeavours by:
• offering training, information, professional development and support
• promoting the value added to society by the profession
• being the focused voice to Governments and other decision makers on transportation expertise and knowledge.

For more information please contact:
Daniel Isichei, Director of Communications, CIHT on t: +44 (0) 20 7336 1567 m: 07912122573 e: Daniel.Isichei@ciht.org.uk 

The 117 mile (188 km) orbital will have many varied memories for our membership from conception to construction through to use, and a discussion can be joined on LinkedIn. To share with others your individual M25 tales please visit here