Arcadis, as part of the FUTRAN joint venture comprising Pell Frischmann and TRL, has been appointed by Highways England to provide landscape design support.
This is the first success for the JV through the SPaTS2 Lot 1 (Specialist, Professional and Technical Services) Framework.
A key aspect of the win is writing the guidance for Highways England on Landscape Design for Roads, building on the new Design Manual for Roads and Bridges requirements and the Principles of Good Road Design.
Other tasks include:
- the creation of a landscape metric to assist in providing better asset knowledge and understanding of the condition of the road landscape. It will provide a measurable best practice approach to landscape management and will promote better long-term landscape management practices to assist in improving landscape performance.
- Review and update of the standard Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works specifications for landscape and ecology.
Covering a wide-range of expertise, FUTRAN provides a one-stop-shop of engineering advice, consultancy and research knowledge for our clients.
John Ramsay, Technical Director at Arcadis leading on Energy and Environment for FUTRAN, said:
“This important win will drive forward agendas on net environmental gain, highway aesthetics, sustainability and decarbonisation. The guidance will set out ‘what does good look like’ to encourage and promote better design and environmental outcomes for all UK future roads.”
David Threlfall, FUTRAN lead for Arcadis, commented:
“This is an excellent win and shows the strength of the FUTRAN team. Arcadis is leading in the JV on Environment, Transport Planning, Structures and sustainability opportunities, but the strength of the combined team enhances our ability to win and deliver high quality advice to our clients.”
Henry Penner, Landscape Advisor, Highways England
“The supplementary guidance document to DMRB LD 117 supports our commitment to promoting better road design. We will be working with our stakeholders and the UK Devolved Administrations to achieve this and deliver the protection and enhancement of the natural environment and biodiversity along our roads.”
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