Summary
- Project Locations: A63 (South Melton, Welton, and Clive Sullivan Way)
- Client: National Highways (via Principal Contractor McCann)
- Scope: Vegetation Clearance, Fencing Replacement, Social Value & Community Engagement
Project Overview
GVA was sub-contracted by McCann to support a major infrastructure upgrade along the A63. The wider project involved a full replacement of the Vehicle Restraint Systems (VRS) and street lighting. GVA’s role was critical in preparing the site for these upgrades and restoring boundary fencing that had fallen into disrepair.
The Challenge
The existing infrastructure faced several issues before GVA’s intervention:
- Safety Hazards: Boundary fencing at Clive Sullivan Way and Melton was in a state of “horrendous” disrepair, with reports of panels leaning toward the highway and creating a potential risk to the public.
- Operational Obstacles: Overgrown vegetation was preventing the replacement of street lighting columns and VRS barriers.
- Reduced Visibility: Highway signage had become obscured both by encroaching vegetation and a build-up of road grime and algae, hindering effective wayfinding for motorists.
- Community Impact: To facilitate the works, the A63 required full night closures, diverting heavy traffic through the quiet villages of Welton and Melton, leading to significant local disruption and resident complaints.
The Solution
GVA delivered a multi-faceted programme of works, focusing on efficiency and high-quality installation:
- Vegetation Management & Signage Restoration: Precision clearance was undertaken to allow for the removal and replacement of every street light column and VRS section. Following the main works, GVA used a Unimog with a flail to clear sightlines for road signage. To ensure total visibility, the team also performed manual cleaning of the roadside signs, restoring them to a legible state to support safe wayfinding.
Fencing Replacement: Melton: A full takedown and reinstall of 211 metres of timber close-board fencing. - Clive Sullivan Way: A 400–500 metre stretch of post-and-four-rail fencing, involving both full replacement and “find and fix” repairs.
- Safety & Innovation: All works were conducted under full night closures to maximise operative safety. GVA utilised digital safety protocols, ensuring all Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) were signed and accessible via mobile devices on-site. Underground scanning (CAT and Genny) was strictly enforced before any ground was broken.
Insight
“The project ran perfectly with no issues whatsoever. It demonstrates exactly how well GVA can deliver a complex scheme through meticulous planning and sticking to the programme. We pride ourselves on being a professional outfit that gets the job done right the first time—a commitment that was reflected in the project being recognized by National Highways and shortlisted for an award.”
Tim Barraclough – Assistant Contracts Manager, GVA
Social Value: “Giving Back” to the Community
Recognising the disruption caused by traffic diversions, GVA undertook a dedicated social value project to support the residents of Welton and Melton:
- Pond Restoration: GVA rejuvenated a local village duck pond, a vital site for migratory birds. The team cleared overgrown brambles, strimmed the surrounding area, and laid fresh mulch to make the space more accessible and attractive for locals.
- Traffic Calming: In response to resident concerns regarding cyclist speed on a specific access footpath, GVA installed three large planters to create a “hairpin” slowing effect, improving safety for pedestrians.
- Litter Picking: A full scheme-wide litter pick was conducted to leave the environment in a pristine state.
Outcomes and Success
The project is cited as a “perfect” example of GVA’s delivery capabilities:
- Award Recognition: Due to the smooth delivery and high standards, the scheme was shortlisted for the Highways UK Excellence Awards 2025.
- Right First Time: The project was delivered exactly to the programme with zero remedial works required.
- Client Satisfaction: The collaboration between GVA, McCann, and National Highways was seamless, with the project being praised for its management and safety record.
- Environmental Legacy: By timing works outside of bird nesting seasons and conducting thorough pre-shift nesting checks, GVA ensured the local ecosystem was protected throughout the project.
Client quote
“GVA was nominated for a Certificate of Recognition for going above and beyond for our customers and communities. At our latest Customer Working Group, it was agreed that you have set a great example of caring about more than just the day job.”
Kirsty Knights – Regional Customer Service Programme Manager, National Highways