North Oxford Corridor Project Wins National Sustainability Accolade

Oxfordshire County Council, in collaboration with their longstanding contractor Milestone Infrastructure, received accolades in three distinct categories at the Highways Awards. This recognition is attributed to their joint efforts on the north Oxford corridor improvement initiative.

The primary goal of the north Oxford corridor initiative is to provide more convenient access to Oxford’s city centre, streamline bus travel times, enhance pathways for cyclists and pedestrians, and bolster local residential and job growth.

During the awards ceremony held on October 11, the project clinched the Environmental Sustainability Award in the domain of de-carbonisation. Additionally, it earned notable mention in the Major Project segment.

Furthermore, the Highway Partnership category brought another commendation, celebrating the Oxfordshire Highways Alliance. This consortium comprises the county council, Milestone Infrastructure, and subcontractors Aggregate Industries, Colas, Drayton Construction, Hazell and Jefferies, as well as MJ Titchmarsh.

The award-winning submission underscored the shared lofty carbon targets of Milestone Infrastructure and the county council. The north Oxford corridor endeavor is significantly aiding in achieving these goals.

Thus far, the project has realized a notable decline in its baseline carbon footprint: a 37% drop, equivalent to 2,388 tonnes of carbon dioxide (tCO2e). To put this in perspective, over 14,300 mature trees would be required to offset this volume of carbon dioxide. This monumental accomplishment was realized through baseline assessments, specialized carbon-focused events and workshops, coupled with the inception and deployment of a unique carbon estimating instrument.

Councillor Judy Roberts, who oversees Infrastructure & Development Strategy, expressed her elation:

“I am delighted that our collaboration with Milestone Infrastructure and other partners has been recognised in national awards. North Oxford Corridor improvements is a multimillion-pound project that will provide enhanced bus priority and safer cycling and walking infrastructure on the edge of the city. The improvements will encourage a shift to more sustainable and healthy travel and contribute towards better air quality and reduced carbon emissions. It is brilliant that our vision for a greener, healthier county is acknowledged in the whole project lifecycle – I’d like to extend my thanks to all our partners and council officers who are living our values.”