Highways UK is one of the leading events for the roads infrastructure sector, providing an important opportunity to share knowledge, explore innovation and discuss how the industry can create a smarter, greener and more efficient road network.

As a proud supporter of the event, CIHT will be contributing to conversations across the conference programme and exhibition. Visitors can meet the CIHT team at stand H11 to learn more about membership, professional development and the Institution’s work to support and represent highways and transportation professionals.

CIHT President Kate Carpenter will take part in the opening keynote panel, “Funding and delivering the UK’s road network”, at 10.15 on Wednesday 14 October. The session will bring together senior figures from across the sector to examine the investment and delivery challenges facing the network.

Later that day, Sue Percy CBE, Chief Executive, CIHT will join the keynote panel “From maintenance to management: Rethinking how we deliver and renew roads”, beginning at 14.10. The discussion will explore how the sector can move towards a more strategic and sustainable approach to managing and renewing its road assets.

Sue Percy will also speak in the Big Thinking Theatre at 12.10 on Thursday 15 October. The session, “Addressing the skills gap in highways: Attracting new talent, upskilling and bridging the gap”, will examine what the sector must do to develop the workforce and capabilities needed for the future.

CIHT voices across the programme

A range of CIHT representatives and members will contribute their expertise throughout the two-day event:

• Justin Ward, CIHT Head of Policy and Technical Practice, will moderate “Reorganisation and devolution in practice: Empowering local transport decisions” at 12.10 on 14 October.
• Antoneta Horbury will moderate sessions on delivering carbon reduction across road projects and achieving better outcomes through collaboration.
• Matilda Fisher will moderate“Cleaner water, stronger partnerships: Sustainable solutions for managing roads run-off” at 12.10 on 15 October.
• Matthew Lugg and Amanda Richards will speak in the Professional Development Hub about addressing the knowledge and skills gap in preventative highways maintenance at 15.00 on 15 October.

The programme reflects many of the priorities at the heart of CIHT’s work, including long-term investment, preventative maintenance, climate resilience, collaboration, professional development and the skills needed to support the future of the sector.

Come and see us at stand H11

Whether you are already a CIHT member, are considering professional registration or want to find out more about CIHT’s policy, learning and technical work, visit stand H11 and speak to the team.

Highways UK 2026 takes place at the NEC Birmingham on Wednesday 14 and Thursday 15 October 2026.

Register for Highways UK and make sure you include stand H11 in your plans: Find out more and register for Highways UK 2026