Construct - Issue 51

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EVALUATING RECYCLED ASPHALT TRIALS RESURFACING REGENT’S PARK ROADWAYS CONSTRUCT ISSUE 51 TRANSFORMING FALCON ROAD UNDERPASS

Foreword

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Andrew Hansen Chief Executive Officer

IT’S EASY TO TALK ABOUT INNOVATION AND COLLABORATION – IT’S FAR HARDER TO TAKE THOSE SENTIMENTS AND TURN THEM INTO REALITY. It’s something we’re passionate about at FM Conway, and I’m proud to see this edition of Construct packed, yet again, with stories of our teams working hand in hand with our clients and industry partners to find new, better ways of doing things. Our business has never shied away from a challenge or from pushing boundaries. We also know the importance of bringing others with us and harnessing the power of collective effort. The recent trial on the M4 with National Highways is a fantastic example of that in action, achieving a 50% reduction in carbon while working on one of the country’s busiest motorways. These are the kind of projects that will keep our industry heading in the right direction on decarbonisation. The same mindset underpins our self-delivery model – how can we improve the way we operate to bring benefits for our clients and the public they serve? Our upgraded Dartford drainage treatment plant will significantly increase our capacity to recycle gully waste, recover clean water and produce high-quality aggregates, all while reducing environmental impact and strengthening certainty of supply for our clients. We’ve expanded our Imperial Wharf bitumen terminal too, reinforcing the foundations of our self-delivery approach at a time when resilience matters. Beyond what we build, we remain committed to our people and the communities we support. Our decade long partnership with the Street Soccer Foundation continues to change young lives and it’s been a privilege to play our part in it.

Contents 03 ST PAUL’S GYRATORY

TRANSFORMATION PROJECT 04 R ECYCLED ASPHALT (RAP) TRIAL SUCCESS ON THE A1 06 IMPERIAL WHARF BITUMEN TERMINAL EXPANSION 08 DARTFORD WATER DRAINAGE TREATMENT PLANT UPGRADE 11 EDI AWARDS SUCCESS TWO MAJOR ACCOLADES IN 2025 12 FALCON ROAD UNDERPASS A COLOURFUL TRANSFORMATION 14 REGENT’S PARK ROADWAYS RESURFACING HISTORIC ROADS 16 STREET SOCCER TRANSFORMING THE LIVES OF VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE 18 L OW CARBON RESURFACING M4 SCHEME IS FIRST OF ITS KIND 20 5 MINUTES WITH REBECCA HATCH 22 A JOB WELL DONE 23 NEWS IN BRIEF

So, read on and enjoy more stories of great people, great work.

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Contract

ST PAUL’S GYRATORY

FM Conway is working with the City of London Corporation to deliver the St Paul’s Gyratory Transformation Project, which will create a new public space and improve walking and cycling routes in the Square Mile. With the area steeped in history, the works are being carried out using electric-powered equipment, to reduce environmental impact and maintain the character of the location. The electric equipment includes two excavators and a dumper, all recharged using 100% renewable energy via a mobile charging solution.

This integrated approach reduces emissions and improves local air quality, simplifying site logistics, and enabling quieter operations

that minimise disruption for nearby businesses, residents, and road users.

The project supports the City of London’s Climate Action Strategy and demonstrates how zero-emission construction methods can be scaled across major infrastructure schemes, combining sustainability with innovation in urban environments.

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Innovation

FROM TRIAL TO TRIUMPH

FM CONWAY AND TRANSPORT FOR LONDON ARE CELEBRATING THE OUTCOME OF A LANDMARK TRIAL TO PROVE THE EFFECTIVENESS OF RECYCLED ASPHALT PRODUCT (RAP)

The A1 Mill Hill trial proved that RAP could match traditional mixes in durability and sustainability, marking a major step towards lower carbon road construction. FM Conway believed in the benefits of the circular economy, extending the lifecycle of materials as far as possible, long before it was fashionable. Recycling asphalt and aggregates for highways construction and maintenance work minimises waste, cuts pressure on virgin resources and lowers carbon emissions. However, historically, there were doubts about whether high recycled asphalt could meet the requirements of the strategic network. Now the business has the data to prove that it can. Back in 2016, when the trial began, it was commonplace to incorporate 50% recycled content into the base and binder course of strategic routes, but its use in surface courses was restricted to just 10%. The thinking was that high recycled content mixes couldn’t provide adequate skid resistance or durability.

FM Conway had been investing in research to expand the use of RAP and needed a like minded client who could help to challenge these misconceptions by taking material mixes out of the lab and onto the road. Transport for London (TfL) fit the bill. Having worked closely for many years, FM Conway and TfL had built a strong foundation of mutual trust and confidence in delivery. The pair launched an ambitious trial to test higher percentages of recycled asphalt on the A1 at Mill Hill, a high-speed, strategic route to the north of London. FM Conway resurfaced three lanes, two with 50% RAP in the surface course and one with a traditional mix as a control. Between 2016 and 2025, the material was closely monitored. TfL commissioned an independent supplier to extract 18 core samples from the three lanes to assess performance. The verdict was clear – the tests proved conclusively that high RAP works.

LOCATION

Potters Bar

M25

M25

Elstree

M1

MILL HILL

Edgeware

Finchley

M1

Harrow

Brent Cross

Wembley

Camden

The results show that sustainable road construction is far from a

compromise; it’s the future.

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“…in 2016, it was the first time we’d used 50% recycled asphalt on such a major route, and it proved it could handle heavy traffic.”

The results of our work with TfL validate what we’ve known all along: that RAP can deliver better results than virgin mixes in some areas.

Both materials showed comparable results for water sensitivity/resistance and bonding strength with the underlying layer. The real difference came to light when evaluating rut resistance and stiffness. RAP materials rutted much less, only 1.2mm versus 1.6mm for traditional materials – a 25% reduction. What’s more, the stiffness of the traditional material was much higher at 4,488MPa compared to 3,033MPa for the RAP mix. So, despite a decade of use, the RAP sections were much less prone to rutting and cracking – proving excellent performance and durability. FM Conway worked with Lukash Manandhar, Principal Engineer at Transport for London, who says of the project: “The A1 Mill Hill trial was a milestone for us and the industry too – challenging perceptions of high proportions of RAP in a way that had not been done before. It was the first time we’d used 50% recycled asphalt on such a major route, and it proved it could handle heavy traffic. What made the difference was the early collaboration with FM Conway. Working closely from the start meant we could show that RAP isn’t just durable but reliable too. The success here gave us the confidence to do the same on the A40 in west London. We’re committed to reducing our carbon usage as we work towards net zero, so we’ll keep building on the results from this trial to cut emissions even further in future projects.”

The results show that sustainable road construction is far from a compromise; it’s the future. Since the pioneering work done in 2016, there has been wider adoption of sustainable materials in the highways sector. In 2024, FM Conway laid a new road surface for Westminster City Council using 92% recycled content, currently the highest percentage for any project in the UK. “The use of high levels of recycled asphalt has grown significantly, but there’s still a long way to go to making it standard practice,” says Mark Flint, technical director at FM Conway. “The results of our work with TfL validate what we’ve known all along: that RAP can deliver better results than virgin mixes in some areas. The important thing now is to look at how we can incorporate high-recycled asphalt into specifications by default.” The trial highlighted the importance of close collaboration between contractors and client teams. Mark adds: “The highways industry faces some big challenges over the next few years, not least getting to net zero carbon. We need new thinking, but progress can only happen if the industry works together to hit common goals. That’s why trials like this are so important, and it’s why we wanted to share the outcome of our work – so that we can collectively build on success.”

FACTS Client

Transport for London (TfL) Divisions • Aggregates and Asphalt • Surfacing

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Collaboration

FM CONWAY UNITES COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION TO DELIVER A PROJECT THAT SECURES BITUMEN DELIVERY FOR THE FUTURE BUILDING TOGETHER: A LANDMARK EXPANSION

FM Conway’s Imperial Wharf bitumen terminal expansion will double the site’s import and storage capacity, further strengthening the business’ resilience and its commitment to customers. The project showcases the power of collaboration, bringing together expertise from across the business and trusted partners to deliver a project that future-proofs supply and reduces environmental impact. Imperial Wharf is a site where history and progress converge. Once home to a paper mill, with remnants of the historic ship-to shore railway still visible today, it reflects a proud industrial legacy that has shaped the local landscape for generations.

Two new 3,000 tonne heated bitumen tanks have been integrated seamlessly

Eleven years ago, FM Conway transformed this historic site into a modern bitumen terminal, establishing it as a cornerstone of the business’ unique self-delivery model. Today, that legacy provides the foundation for a bold new chapter. This latest development marks a defining moment – building on more than a decade of operational success to create a high capacity facility that guarantees a secure supply of bitumen to ensure long-term success. At a time when global production faces mounting pressures, this investment bolsters resilience to deliver for highways clients and partners across the south of England, and reinforces FM Conway’s commitment to innovation and reliability.

into the existing terminal process.

LOCATION

M25

South Ockendon

Stanford- le-Hope

Purfleet Grays

E S

Tilbury

M

A

H

T

R

E

M25

R

I V

Gravesend

IMPERIAL WHARF

M2

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What makes this project truly stand out is the execution. Acting as principal contractor under construction, design and management regulations, the FM Conway project team undertook the planning, management, and execution of the works – a testament to the business’ technical capability and its integrated delivery approach. More than 11 FM Conway business units have worked together, from structures and surfacing to water and drainage management, supported by external specialists such as Vision Groundworks, Fosseway, Benninghoven and Allied Tanks. This level of collaboration has been both challenging and rewarding, cultivating deeper internal and external relationships and enhancing skillsets across the business. The expansion itself is impressive in scale and complexity. Two new 3,000 tonne heated bitumen tanks, constructed by the FM Conway team, on fully bunded foundations, have been integrated seamlessly into the existing terminal process. A new gantry and weighbridges will support long-term operations while the jetty has been upgraded to accommodate larger vessels, reducing reliance on road transport and cutting carbon emissions. A new delivery pipe will connect the tanks straight to the existing ship-to-shore pipeline, streamlining operations.

Behind the scenes, detailed design coordination, rigorous safety management and specialist civil engineering ensured that the terminal remained fully operational – public access and deliveries continued without interruption – while the upgrades were in progress. “This project is a triumph for FM Conway’s self-delivery model,” says Tim Metcalf, Group Development Director at FM Conway. “We’ve drawn on the experience and expertise from every corner of our business and that teamwork and shared thinking has delivered a fantastic result.” For FM Conway, this is more than an infrastructure upgrade; it’s a statement of intent. By leveraging in-house expertise and fostering collaboration at every level, the business has delivered a project that embodies sustainability and innovation. It also sets a benchmark for future projects, demonstrating how complex industrial construction can be managed safely, efficiently and with minimal disruption.

SPECIAL THANKS • Aggregates and Asphalt • Bitumen Storage Delivery Team • Technology Centre • Civil Engineering • Commercial Team • Major Projects • Procurement • SHEQ • Street Lighting

• Surfacing • Water and Drainage

Management

“We’ve drawn on the experience and expertise from every corner of our business and that teamwork and shared thinking has delivered a fantastic result.”

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Investment

TURNING WASTE INTO OPPORTUNITY FM CONWAY HAS INVESTED £1.5 MILLION TO UPGRADE ITS DRAINAGE TREATMENT PLANT IN DARTFORD

Combining cutting-edge technology with a commitment to circular resource use, the investment will enable the business to recycle gully waste more effectively, recovering valuable aggregates, sand and water, as well as combating the fight against soil erosion. The construction industry is one of the biggest consumers of natural resources, and as urban populations grow, so too does demand for them. When we think of building materials, it’s often products like sand, gravel, bricks and mortar that spring to mind, but what about water?

Construction and infrastructure sites have an insatiable thirst. In the UK alone, it’s estimated that the industry uses more than 8 billion litres of water every year. It is vital, from use in material mixes to serving as a lubricant, cleaning agent, heat transfer medium, solvent, and as an air pollution suppressor amongst other things. However, with freshwater resources under increasing pressure, exacerbated by the impact of climate change, the industry’s demand is unsustainable. More needs to be done to reduce waste and increase the efficiency of water usage in construction.

FM Conway has long been a vocal champion for moving the industry towards a circular economy model, keeping materials in use for as long as possible.

“Our investment in the plant shows how we can cut waste and reuse resources that would otherwise be discarded.”

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FM Conway has long been a vocal champion for moving the industry towards a circular economy model, keeping materials in use for as long as possible. As part of its sustainability goals, the business has invested £1.5 million to upgrade its water drainage treatment plant and increase capability. The plant processes gully waste from FM Conway’s maintenance operations and street cleaning operator clients. Recycling this wastewater has a multitude of benefits, and the upgraded Dartford plant supports the business’ waste recovery strategy – it conserves freshwater resources, removes contaminants which could harm ecosystems, and recovers aggregates and sand that can be potentially put back to work in innovative material mixes. Crucially, it will also recover water in a purified state. This means it is suitable for a wide range of uses, from washing aggregates to feeding street cleaning machines, all without tapping into local water supplies or relying on expensive metered solutions.

Another important but often overlooked component of gully waste recovery is the sludge cake. This is the solid and semi-solid organic residue that remains after all the useful materials have been extracted. It cannot be reused but it serves as an excellent soil conditioner and helps prevent the erosion of topsoil. Peter Maasz, head of projects at FM Conway, is clear about the business’ commitment: “Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword for us – it’s at the heart of everything we do. Our investment in the plant shows how we can cut waste and reuse resources that would otherwise be discarded. For us, producing purified water and aggregates from gully waste and putting byproducts to good use doesn’t just make environmental sense, it makes business sense too. It gives us surety of supply for ourselves and our clients as we self-deliver projects.” The upgrade to the plant will also sharply increase processing capability, meaning more client projects can be supported, more frequently.

FACTS Divisions • Water and Drainage

Management

• Structures

LOCATION

Dagenham

M25

Purfleet

Erith

Tilbury

Dartford

Gravesend

DRAINAGE TREATMENT PLANT

Swanley

M20

M25

CONTINUES

OVERLEAF

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TURNING WASTE INTO OPPORTUNITY … CONTINUED

Peter adds: “Our drainage treatment plant became operational in 2004. In the 22 years since, we’ve seen demand for gully waste recycling grow steadily. This investment will see the plant processing up to 30,000 tonnes of wastewater every year, a huge increase from the 17,000 tonnes that we were previously doing.” “It’s exciting to be part of something that’s good for the environment while also providing greater resilience for the business.” The move aligns with FM Conway’s constructor certification to PAS 2080:2023, which focuses on managing and reducing whole-life carbon in infrastructure projects. By addressing the challenges of water scarcity and waste management head on, FM Conway is proving that, if done with longevity in mind, investment into sustainable practices can be a scalable solution that benefits the planet and business alike.

RECYCLING IS IN OUR DNA

Recycling is at the heart of FM Conway’s circular economy model, ensuring the recovery and reuse of materials efficiently across its operations. Highways and construction waste are recycled at three dedicated plants, using advanced crushing, washing, and grading equipment. Each year, FM Conway recycles 98% of highways arisings, diverts 100% of construction waste from

landfill, and reintegrates asphalt planings into Recycled

Asphalt Product (RAP). Its concrete mixers also use recycled aggregate.

This approach reduces primary aggregate consumption, cuts carbon emissions, and promotes the circular economy. From operatives to management, teams are trained to maximise resource efficiency, ensuring FM Conway continues to lead the way in sustainable construction.

“It’s exciting to be part of something that’s good for the environment while also providing greater resilience for the business.”

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People

FM CONWAY HAS ESTABLISHED ITSELF AS A LEADER IN CREATING A MORE BALANCED AND DIVERSE SECTOR, DELIVERING INITIATIVES THAT EMPOWER PEOPLE AND CREATE LASTING IMPACT CELEBRATING PROGRESS, SHAPING THE FUTURE

These efforts earned national recognition, with the business winning two major accolades recently: ‘Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion’ at the Kensington, Chelsea & Westminster Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, and ‘Excellence in Recruitment and Retention’ at the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards. This recognition reflects the progress of the business’ ‘All Great People’ strategy, which places inclusion and development at the heart of its culture, and the results are clear to see. Since the launch of the strategy in 2020, there has been a 79% increase in the number of women at FM Conway, a 2109% increase in those with a disability or long-term medical condition and a 542% increase in veterans, which shows how far the business has come as momentum continues to build*. A cornerstone of this strategy is the ‘30 by 30’ initiative: FM Conway’s pledge to ensure that 30% of its workforce is female by 2030. Since launching the 30 by 30 campaign, female headcount has increased by over 4%, and attrition has fallen from 12% in January 2025 to less than 8% in April this year.

“With 30 by 30, we’re breaking down barriers and opening pathways for women at every stage of their careers,” says Ella Cole, Head of Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. “From structured development and support programmes to all-women career days and return-to-work initiatives, we are building an environment where women can join, grow, and lead.” That vision is brought to life through courses like ‘Personal Best’, a six-month development programme designed to help women achieve breakthrough goals in both their personal and professional lives. Delivered in partnership with Passe Partout, the programme was launched last year, combining workshops and coaching to build confidence and resilience. Its impact has been strong: following the course, 92% of participants reported improved confidence, 69% said that they now challenge negative self-talk, 62% set healthier boundaries and 54% said their wellbeing had improved.

* Data accurate as of March 2026

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Public realm

“We’ve delivered a high-quality finish that celebrates the community and connects the local area.”

A BRIGHTER GATEWAY TO CLAPHAM JUNCTION

TRANSFORMING THE FALCON ROAD UNDERPASS INTO A SAFER, GREENER AND FRIENDLIER SPACE

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scheme was developed to improve visibility while enhancing the ambience of the underpass. The result is a space that feels brighter and safer, day and night. Delivering this transformation was no small feat – to meet the tight delivery deadline, FM Conway teams were on site 24-hours a day, five days a week, for the majority of the works schedule. Maintaining pedestrian access throughout was essential, achieved through illuminated tunnels and the presence of marshals during night shifts. Unavoidable closures for vehicles were carefully timed to minimise disruption. The proximity to Clapham Junction meant all works had to be planned with precision to avoid any impact on the railway. FM Conway liaised closely with Network Rail’s asset protection team and followed strict protocols to ensure safety and uninterrupted rail service. “This was a complex job in a confined and high-traffic environment,” says Liam McGoldrick, senior contracts manager at FM Conway. “We had multiple trades working simultaneously – painting, electrical, cladding, landscaping – and it required detailed sequencing and daily coordination to keep everything on track. But thanks to strong collaboration with the London Borough of Wandsworth and our partners, we’ve delivered a high-quality finish that celebrates the community and connects the local area.” Sam Emmett from the London Borough of Wandsworth adds: “Falcon Road is a vital link in our borough’s transport network. FM Conway has consistently delivered great work for us and this was no different. The project has not only improved the safety and appearance of the underpass but has done so with minimal disruption, managing stakeholders including TfL, London Buses, Network Rail, emergency services, local businesses and residents. The result is a space that better serves everyone who uses it.”

The Falcon Road underpass in Wandsworth is an important link for local people, sitting below one of the UK’s busiest rail junctions, but it was a rather unloved and unwelcoming space. FM Conway’s recent works have dramatically changed all that, delivering a colourful transformation that balances infrastructure improvement with community benefit. Running for around 100 metres beneath four railway bridges, the Falcon Road underpass connects a bustling bus station to the north with a busy high street to the south. It sees thousands of people and vehicles pass through daily, but until recently it probably wasn’t somewhere that many enjoyed visiting. Contracted by the London Borough of Wandsworth, the FM Conway team undertook a major programme of works to upgrade the route. The mission: to create a pleasant and lively environment that shows the best face of Wandsworth. makeover, including applying a Network Rail approved protective coating system. They also put in pigeon deterrents to discourage these avian visitors from redecorating in future. The stars of the show are new enamel cladding panels installed along both walls of the underpass, which celebrate the local Wandsworth community. Developed with input from residents, their energetic designs have turned a utilitarian space into a vibrant public corridor. At the southern end of the underpass, FM Conway introduced landscaped planters filled with trees and shrubs, helping biodiversity as well as making the space more inviting for pedestrians and passers-by. One of the big things the project team wanted to achieve was to make the underpass feel safer, so getting the lighting right was key. A specialist architectural The team got to work jet washing the underpass and getting it ready for its

LOCATION

BATTERSEA PARK

S

Chelsea Harbour

E

M

E R T H A

Battersea

V

R I

FALCON ROAD

Clapham Junction

Wandsworth

FACTS Client

London Borough of Wandsworth Divisions • Structures • Digital Urban Solutions • Traffic Management

A specialist architectural scheme was developed to

improve visibility while enhancing the ambience of the underpass.

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Project

“The Royal Parks are vital historic green corridors across the city, and very popular spaces, so any infrastructure work must be carried out with care and sensitivity.”

FM CONWAY HAS COMPLETED A RESURFACING PROJECT ON THE OUTER CIRCLE IN LONDON’S THE REGENT’S PARK. THE TEAM COMBINED EFFICIENCY, SAFETY AND SUSTAINABILITY TO DELIVER THESE WORKS RESURFACING THE REGENT’S PARK ROADWAYS

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Millions of visitors from the UK and beyond enjoy London’s eight Royal Parks every year. The parks cover 5,000 acres of historical natural landscapes – supporting tens of thousands of trees, hosting thousands of wildlife species and providing formal bedding displays for all to admire. The beautiful green spaces are free for everyone to explore, providing opportunities for relaxation, recreation and discovery, and they host world-class cultural and sporting events as well as hosting ceremonial events of national significance. What many people probably don’t think about is the work that goes on behind the scenes to keep these places open and looking their best. This significant project, which concluded in spring 2026, required exceptional care to safeguard the historic integrity of the space but, importantly, to also minimise inconvenience to visitors. FM Conway’s surfacing team removed and replaced more than 6,300m² of material, laying 785 tonnes of new surface course, along this popular stretch of roadway. The work focused on three main locations: Gloucester Gate, Clarence Gate and Ulster Terrace, with additional paving improvements on Baker Street footways opposite Clarence Gate. FM Conway also reinstated road markings and installed traffic loops at Ulster Terrace. The diligent team maintained public safety throughout the work. FM Conway’s surfacing fleet used Sidescan and Autostop technology, systems that alert operators to hazards and automatically stop equipment if a person or object comes too close. Marshals on site assisted vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians during the works.

As part of FM Conway’s sustainable delivery practices, lower-emission fuel was used at its plant throughout the works, and dust suppression technology was used to minimise environmental impact. The works formed part of The Royal Parks Highways Contractor Framework, which covers 50km of roads and 100km of footpaths and bridleways across eight historic parks. FM Conway was appointed to the framework in 2024 on a four-year contract, continuing a relationship with The Royal Parks charity that started in 2012. balancing heritage, sustainability, nature and public access,” says Paul Padfield, surfacing director at FM Conway. “We understand the huge responsibility that comes with working in these prestigious locations, and we take pride in delivering innovative solutions that respect the environment while meeting the highest standards of safety and quality so people can continue to enjoy these green spaces long into the future.” “The Royal Parks are vital historic green corridors across the city, and very popular spaces, so any infrastructure work must be carried out with care and sensitivity,” adds Caroline McDonagh, head of works and facilities management at The Royal Parks charity. “FM Conway’s approach combines technical excellence with environmental responsibility, with a core focus on sustainability, ensuring that any improvements enhance the visitor experience without compromising the character and natural heritage of these landscapes.” “Resurfacing in the Royal Parks is about more than laying asphalt – it’s about

LOCATION

Camden Town

THE REGENT’S PARK

St John’s Wood

Marylebone

Paddington

Soho

HYDE PARK

S

E

M

A

Westminster

T H

FACTS Client The Royal Parks charity Divisions • Surfacing • Traffic Management

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Community

USING FOOTBALL AS A FORCE FOR GOOD TO TRANSFORM THE LIVES OF VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE BUILDING FUTURES THROUGH FOOTBALL

FM Conway’s long-standing support for the Street Soccer Foundation – first championed by former CEO Michael Conway MBE – continues to go from strength to strength as the charity celebrates 10 years of changing young lives through the power of football. When FM Conway first partnered with the Street Soccer Foundation in 2016, it wasn’t just backing a programme, it was committing to a mission for the long haul: to change young lives for the better. Nearly a decade on, that partnership has helped over 2,000 vulnerable and homeless young people across the UK find confidence, purpose and opportunity through football.

The Foundation celebrated its 10th anniversary with a London tournament for over 100 vulnerable young people.

It all began with a handwritten letter from Street Soccer founder and CEO Keith Mabbutt to FM Conway’s former CEO Michael Conway MBE. What followed was a partnership rooted in shared values and a belief that businesses should be active partners in creating social change. FM Conway’s engagement with the Foundation has gone beyond mere funding to offering office space, hosting industry insight days for graduates, and helping measure the programme’s social value. Today, every £1 invested in the Foundation’s Academy generates £36 in social good. The Academy runs 12-week personal development courses, in partnership with professional football clubs and their community teams nationwide. These combine football coaching, mindset training, mentoring and employability workshops — all designed to help young people move from sometimes difficult situations into work, education or training.

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“We’ve always worked to leave a positive legacy in the communities and places where we work, and our partnership with the Street Soccer team

One standout story is Paige’s, who overcame homelessness and mental health struggles to join the Crystal Palace Street Soccer Academy as its only female participant. With support from mentors and peers, she completed the programme, earned a place at the University of Kent to study physical education and now serves as an Academy Ambassador, inspiring others with her journey. In the 2023/24 season alone, FM Conway supported 12 Academy groups and 158 young people, delivering 480 hours of support. Over 80% of participants progressed into employment, education or further training. “For us, supporting the Street Soccer Foundation is about being part of something bigger,” says Matt Smith, managing director at FM Conway. “We’ve always worked to leave a positive legacy in the communities and places where we work, and our partnership with the Street Soccer team has been an incredibly important part of that.” On 10 October 2025, the Foundation celebrated its 10th anniversary with a London tournament for over 100 vulnerable young people, marking its ambition to take the Academy model global.

“A true milestone after many years of hard work, dedication, support and our wonderful participants,” explains Street Soccer CEO Keith Mabbutt. “FM Conway – as our first official founding sponsor and partner – will forever be at the heart of the Street Soccer Foundation and for all the charity achieves going forward.” has been an incredibly important part of that.” From a single letter to a national movement, FM Conway’s support has helped the Foundation thrive, proving the transformational power of purpose-led partnerships.

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FM CONWAY AND NATIONAL HIGHWAYS SET NEW BENCHMARK FOR LOW CARBON DELIVERY ON THE M4 GREEN ROADS AHEAD Innovation

FM Conway and National Highways have delivered a first-of-its-kind low carbon scheme on the M4, combining hydrogen and electric plant to resurface the carriageway between junctions 15 and 16. This included the first use of JCB’s hydrogen 3CX backhoe loader on the strategic road network, demonstrating how low carbon materials, innovative paving techniques and low emissions machinery can accelerate the transition to greener infrastructure. The scheme delivered a carbon saving of 50% (630 tonnes of CO2e) versus the standard design, on one of the UK’s busiest motorways, carrying over 130,000 vehicles a day. Showcasing the power of supply chain partnerships and collaboration, the scheme brought together JCB’s hydrogen 3CX backhoe loader, Sany’s electric planer and 4.5 tonne electric roller – all transported on Volvo’s electric 42 tonne lorry. The 11,000 tonne scheme was delivered over six weeks, using low carbon material. The project was delivered with support from National Highways’ Low Carbon Demonstrator Fund, which is designed to de-risk innovation and prove new concepts in real conditions.

By backing projects like this, the fund accelerates the adoption of low carbon plant, materials and methods across the strategic network, and helps set new standards for decarbonised delivery. Andy Weymouth, framework delivery manager at FM Conway, commented: “Delivering this scheme on time and to such a high standard was only possible through genuine collaboration with our partners – we all played a vital role. It took belief in a shared goal and a healthy dose of commitment to integrate the use of these new technologies effectively. “By working together, we overcame challenges and set a new benchmark for how sustainable road construction can be achieved on the national strategic network. This scheme is proof that when we unite expertise and resources, we can accelerate the transition to greener infrastructure and deliver real impact.” Angela Halliwell, Head of Carbon and Air Quality at National Highways, added: “This groundbreaking scheme on the M4 showcases how our Low Carbon Demonstrator Fund is helping turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. By supporting innovative approaches like hydrogen and electric machinery, recycled materials and advanced paving techniques, we’re proving that sustainable road construction is not only possible – it’s happening now.” The integration of hydrogen and electric machinery, the road laying method, equipment movement and material selection meant emissions were cut at every stage of the job.

FACTS Client National Highways Divisions • Surfacing • Traffic

Management • Aggregates and Asphalt

LOCATION

A40

Oxford

Cirencester

A419

A420

A34

Swindon

J16

J15

M4

Marlborough

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PLANT AND EQUIPMENT The scheme showed the step change enabled by JCB’s hydrogen combustion engine, which adapts proven engine architecture to run entirely on hydrogen while delivering diesel equivalent power and duty cycles. It avoids the weight, cost and charging constraints that limit battery options for high demand, long shift plant, and its use on the strategic network provided a rare real-world demonstration of how hydrogen can decarbonise machinery that is otherwise hard to electrify.

LAYING TECHNIQUE FM Conway laid both lanes simultaneously using the echelon paving technique to remove weak joints and improve road quality. This faster method requires fewer shifts and reduces road closures, rerouting and disruption. Laser profiling was also used to detect and correct surface irregularities, creating a smoother, more durable surface that develops fewer cracks and reduces the need for future repairs. MATERIAL The asphalt mix maximised recycled content, using RAP from the M11, A34 and A3 – with 60% in the base and binder courses and 30% in the surface. Manufacturing was powered by biogas. Together, the use of RAP and biogas during manufacturing reduced project emissions by a third.

“By working together, we overcame challenges and set a new benchmark for how sustainable road construction can be achieved on the national strategic network.”

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Interview

Q

play at FM Conway? Q

ON DIGITAL URBAN SOLUTIONS

What is digital urban solutions, and how did you find yourself working in this sector? Digital urban solutions is the evolution of our established street lighting division, expanding our expertise in intelligent connected infrastructure supported by our asset management services. My entry into the lighting industry came from attending an open day at consultant Atkins Realis’ street lighting design team. That conversation led to an unofficial apprenticeship, and I joined the team in September 2004. More than 20 years later, I’m still as passionate about this industry. There aren’t any formal academic qualifications for lighting specifically, so I built my career through industry led courses, professional development and involvement with the Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP). I worked through professional engineering council registration grades to become an incorporated engineer and took every opportunity to learn and grow. That hands-on learning shaped my career, and I returned to education in 2018 to complete an Executive MBA when my career path changed from technical direction to business. Our digital urban solutions team uses lighting infrastructure to improve people’s experience of a city or town. The technology we deploy turns the humble lamppost that lights our streets into intelligent systems that work harder for communities. For me, the biggest and most exciting shift is that lighting infrastructure is no longer seen as just a way to keep the streets lit. We’re fast recognising that it can do much more to enhance the wellbeing of communities. Instead of assuming ‘brighter is better’, we’re now looking at adaptive lighting that responds in real time, even using colour psychology – dispersing crowds with bright white light or boosting café culture with warm tones. We’re layering lighting too, combining safe baseline What excites you most

What role does your team

A

Wherever there are people and communities, there’s lighting. We want to capitalise on this, making the most of (historically) an overlooked and undervalued asset in our towns and cities. My team sits at the intersection of construction, engineering, data and design, so we can push the potential of our lighting infrastructure further – it can be a gateway to smarter, more responsive services for our communities if we use it right. We collaborate with clients to find opportunities to make the most of their lighting networks. At the core of our work are lighting columns – the everyday streetlights, so common we barely notice them. Now these familiar structures are being reimagined as platforms for smart city technology. Because they’re already powered and well-positioned, they can enable services like EV charging, wireless connectivity and sensors that allow us to collect real-time data on traffic and pedestrian movement, support net-zero goals and improve safety and accessibility through sensors and data capture. Each borough is at a different stage of adoption, but the momentum is building. Our role is to help clients navigate this transition and build on it with confidence.

A

about the industry? Q

A

levels with projectors or festoon lighting to make public spaces more inviting.

Data is also changing the way we work. We use tools like heat maps and risk profiling to predict patterns of degradation, and identify where assets might be failing earlier or highlighting a concern, whether with a particular product or area, how they are occurring and how frequently. This helps councils

allocate budgets more smartly and means they can plan repairs and maintenance before issues arise. 5 MINUTES

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REBECCA HATCH DIGITAL URBAN SOLUTIONS DIRECTOR AT FM CONWAY

most proud of? Q

What project are you

A

We worked with Westminster City Council, to develop a strategy for the borough’s 300 listed gas-lit lamps, which are historically significant and a feature of the neighbourhood. That work won an ILP award, and I was invited to Buckingham Palace to speak with the head of engineering – it was a truly memorable project and a very special moment in my career. I’m also very proud of founding the Young Lighting Professionals group – we started with just two people in 2009 and now it has over 400 members.

It’s helped create space for younger voices in the industry. Building this network has been about opening doors for the next generation and making it more inclusive for the years to come.

outside of work? Q

What do you like to do

A

I love to travel and I’m a bit of a foodie – and at home, my English bulldog Reggie keeps me busy.

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People

Only 13% of the Construction industry is made up of women… FM Conway are on a mission to change this! Some of our residents had the opportunity of a week’s work experience with FM Conway where they gained a deeper insight into the various roles available, had exclusive site visits and industry networking opportunities. The ladies were also supported with employability skills and had the opportunity to gain industry tips and advice around CV’s, the interview process and more! Thank you FM Conway for your continued support with our residents. #fmconway #construction #womeninconstruction #employability #employmerton #workexperience Employ Merton The Employ Merton Project at Merton Council

Mats Bredborg Electrification evangelist | Business innovator | …

City of London Corporation

FM Conway Ltd goes Gen 2. This isn’t a showroom upgrade. It’s being proven on real streets, in real

Today we welcomed a new addition to the City Corporation’s fleet of vehicles. FM Conway Ltd’s new Vok XL cargo cycle is now out and about on the City of London’s streets, offering an emission-free alternative to using vans. The four-wheel quadracycle has a 2000 litre space for up to 200kg of weight, which will enable our teams to transport more equipment and materials in an eco-friendly and convenient way, whilst fully compliant with UK cycle lanes. You may have already seen some of FM Conway’s standard cargo bikes working in the City, and this latest addition allows us to transport larger pieces of equipment, ultimately replacing the capacity of a small van and helping both the City and FM Conway towards their shared net zero goals. #cargobike #cleanair #cycling

conditions, with real work happening around it. FM Conway continues to push the transition forward – now adding the Volvo ECR25 Electric Gen 2 to their fleet. • Double battery capacity • Longer runtime • Even quieter than before Paired with mobile charging, energy is no longer a constraint – it becomes something you manage dynamically. That’s when electrification moves from possible to practical.

And maybe the most interesting part… It’s coming from people willing to test, learn and scale – together. #ElectricConstruction #VolvoCE #FMConway #ChargeFairy #InnovationInAction #SustainableCities #ZeroEmission #Partnership

A JOB WELL DONE

22

News in brief

THE NEXT STEP FOR OUR EV INFRASTRUCTURE

FM Conway completed the transfer of its SureCharge residential charging network to ubitricity, a Shell subsidiary and the UK’s largest public EV charging operator. The acquisition included more than 2,400 charge points across London, which are now part of ubitricity’s managed portfolio. The network rebranded to Shell Recharge, with FM Conway supporting the transition to ensure continuity for boroughs

FM Conway has achieved its third consecutive year of PAS 2080 audits with zero non-conformities. The result reaffirms the company’s strong approach to whole-life carbon management and its alignment with the PAS 2080:2023 standard. As one of the early adopters of the updated certification, FM Conway continues to embed robust carbon-reduction practices across its operations. From industry leading materials re-use to innovative electric plant charging solutions, the business is demonstrating that low-carbon infrastructure works are not only possible, but consistently achievable. SETTING THE STANDARD IN CARBON MANAGEMENT

and road users. The change enables FM Conway to focus on delivering installation, maintenance and technical services across London’s EV infrastructure.

FM CONWAY SECURES KENSINGTON AND CHELSEA CONTRACT

FM Conway has been appointed to Lots 2 and 3 of the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea’s Highways Maintenance Contracts. The work covers maintenance of key highway structures, including Albert and Chelsea Bridges and the Thames River wall, alongside public realm improvements, footway and carriageway resurfacing, street lighting and other planned and emergency works. The five-year contracts, with an optional three year extension, continue the strong partnership between FM Conway and the Royal borough.

WESTMINSTER TAKES THE THRONE

The City of Westminster’s refurbished Victoria Embankment toilets have earned national recognition, winning the Full-Time Attended category for England at this year’s Loo of the Year Awards. Delivered by FM Conway’s Structures team as part of the council’s public convenience upgrade programme, the project provides modernised women’s and men’s facilities, an onsite attendant, enhanced disabled access and a fully compliant Changing Places toilet. The works ensure the site is clean, safe and accessible for both residents and the millions of visitors who use the Embankment each year.

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FM Conway Conway House Vestry Road Sevenoaks Kent TN14 5EL

Tel: 01732 600 700

www.fmconway.co.uk