He told TP Weekly News that over his five and a half years leading the organisation he has been pleased to see three imperatives set out upon Highways England’s formation – improving safety, customer service and project delivery – “become key parts of what we do”.

He noted that 2019 was the safest year ever for strategic road users, initiatives such as the introduction of 60mph speed limits through roadworks have boosted customer experience, and added: “I think our project delivery is looked at right across Government as being the best”, highlighting the early completion of the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon upgrade.

Jim also welcomed an increased focus in RIS2 on renewing ageing assets – including bridges, barriers and concrete roads – which he said will require even more spending in the following five year investment period.

The agreement of longer term arrangements with contractors has also been positive as it “allows them to become integrated teams and invest in people, equipment and apprenticeships”, he said, adding: “Long term contracts have made people far more willing to learn lessons and take them with them to the next job – that came as a surprise to me.”

Jim’s position is set to be filled in the near term by acting chief executive Nick Harris before a new permanent chief executive is appointed.

He noted that key challenges which he leaves to his successor include the ongoing debate around the safety of smart motorways and the resubmission of the previously rejected planning application for the Lower Thames Crossing, which he describes as “probably the most complex project ever to be put through the Development Consent Order process”.
“I have no doubt that it will be successful,” he added.

Meanwhile Jim expects focus on zero carbon and digitalisation to be the two biggest changes reflected in the third road investment strategy, which will run from 2025 to 2030.

“In order to meet the Government’s long term climate aspirations, RIS3 has to demonstrate that we can get to a place where road transport on the strategic network is net zero carbon; it has to mark a meaningful step in that direction.”

Offering advice to his successor, Jim said: “This can be an immensely frustrating job but it is crucial to remember the fact that what we do is important. It is all about keeping the country moving and we must never lose sight of the importance of that.”

Jim is now set to take time off and plans to work on his golf swing, “but I’m sure after that I will want a new challenge,” he said.

“I don’t think I’ll go long without something to do. If the right non-executive directorship came along I would be interested.”

(Photograph: Highways England)