Major investment strengthens UK digital construction through a long-term highways asset management partnership serving Midlands communities today.
Balfour Beatty, appointed by Coventry City Council, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, and Warwickshire County Council, secured a seven-year £315 million agreement, extending the collaboration started in 2011. Balfour Beatty Living Places will maintain over 5,000 kilometres of roads and manage cyclical programmes across 55,000 streetlights, supporting regional mobility and public-realm operations. The term runs to 2033, with potential extension, delivering a total value of £900 million and reinforcing long-term delivery of digital highways maintenance.
AI-enabled inspections and local authority highways services
The contract introduces an integrated, digitally enabled operating model using centralised planning and permitting, combining programme, performance, and operational data to improve oversight and support AI-enabled inspections, winter planning, and reactive maintenance. Philip Hoare, Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive, said: “This award reflects the confidence and trust our customers place in Balfour Beatty. Long-term partnerships enable investment in people and services, delivering measurable outcomes for communities.” Service mobilisation starts in Spring 2026, supporting around 160 roles, including graduate and apprenticeship opportunities across Warwickshire’s transport network.
Digital Construction Delivery: Benefits and Impact
The adoption of digital construction methods within local authority highways asset management is transforming how infrastructure services are delivered. By leveraging data-led decision-making, authorities and contractors are able to make more informed choices, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and maintenance activities are prioritised effectively. This approach enables transparent performance reporting, allowing for greater accountability and visibility across all aspects of service delivery.
Coordinated contractor workflows, facilitated by integrated digital systems, help to support safety on the roads, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the overall quality of maintenance provided. These advances contribute not only to the immediate upkeep of infrastructure but also to the long-term development of skills within the UK’s digital infrastructure supply chain. By fostering continuous learning and innovation, the sector is better equipped to address the evolving needs of communities and adapt to future challenges.
Furthermore, stable infrastructure investment and consistent service provision throughout the duration of the contract bolster regional economic resilience. Residents, businesses, and public transport users all benefit from reliable, well-maintained transport networks. This approach also aligns with national net-zero planning priorities, ensuring that sustainable practices are embedded into the maintenance and improvement of highway assets.
Overall, the Warwickshire Highways Maintenance contract demonstrates how digital construction partnerships deliver accountable infrastructure services, creating long-term value for communities, authorities, industry, and future transport networks nationwide.
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