Industry experts gathered at the Nottingham Trent University to share the current issues on highway maintenance. This half a day symposium was arranged by the CIHT Midland branch on 14^th March 2012. This compact but lively event attracted more than 75 delegates from all over UK. The symposium was opened by the dean of School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment, Peter Westland and was chaired by CIHT Past President Chris Jackson and Midland Branch Chairman Dr Bachar Hakim.

The symposium explored the inventive ways that highway finances can be used to maximizing the effect, both nationally and at a local level. The practicalities of potholes, surface treatments and recycling are addressed by specialists, showing that even a limited budget can be used to achieve very real benefits.

Björn Kullander, from Swedish Highway Administration gave an overview of the Swedish highway maintenance activities. Dr Alistair Hunter from URS highlighted how the Highways Agency’s funding and priorities are affected by the government efficiency programme. Dougie Millar, from Transport Scotland gave an overview on TS2010, an innovative gritted thin asphalt surfacing layer for durable and long-lasting performance. Matthew Lugg from ADEPT/Leicestershire County Council gave an overview on the Highway Maintenance Efficiency Programme, exploring how resource sharing, shared procurement and staff training could improve services. Steve Biczysko from Atkins, widely known as the Professor of pothole, gave an interesting overview on ADEPT research findings on potholes mechanism and repair strategies. Shine Salur from Colas shared the experience of Portsmouth PFI, a success story of asset management optimisation in the private world. Howard Robinson from RSTA gave an overview on present surfacing and repair techniques. The final presentation of the day was given by Andrew Horan and Craig Coley from Defence Infrastructure Organisation, shared the experience and innovation of utilising recycling material in airfields.

(from left to right). Mujib Rahman (Symposium Organiser), Paul Collin (Head of Civil Engineering, NTU), Bachar Hakim (Midland Branch Chairman), Shine Salur, Dougie Millar, Howard Robinson, Björn Kullander and Chris Jackson (CIHT Past President)