National Highways helping communities across the South West

The Willand footpath team. (Image: National Highways)

National Highways is helping communities across the South West through a series of projects in Devon, Cornwall and Somerset.

The company, which manages the motorways and major A roads in England, has been investing in community projects through its Social Value funding stream.

The latest initiatives have seen project teams volunteer near the M5 and A30.

At Nansledan Primary School, near Newquay, National Highways and Costain volunteers from the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross road dualling project have helped create a sensory garden.

The outdoor space is designed to be a calming area for all schoolchildren, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities.

The Social Value funding has also supported the school's environmental efforts, helping Nansledan Primary School to secure plastic-free status for the third year running by purchasing items from Cornwall-based Waterhaul.

National Highways has also been aiding the village of Willand, which borders the M5 section where a concrete renewal scheme is underway.

The company teamed up with Devon County Council, Tarmac, Aecom, and HW Martin to clear a 500-metre section of overgrown footpath through the village.

Jason Hones, South West regional director for National Highways, said: "Our Social Value initiative is a fantastic way in which we can complement our schemes and help local communities alongside our road network.

"While our focus is to deliver a high quality, safe road network, we’re passionate about making a positive impact on our local areas and communities, and we’re delighted to be able to benefit a number of communities bordering our road projects."

Besides the Nansledan School project, the A30 Chiverton to Carland Cross scheme's Social Value funding has also provided Cornwall Blood Bikes with a new motorbike, Cornwall Air Ambulance with a new fly suit, and enabled East Wheal Rose Football Club and the Cornwall Saracens Basketball Club to purchase new equipment.

In Somerset, the A303 Sparkford to Ilchester dualling scheme has helped several community groups.

This includes the restoration of the playing field and funding of new cricket nets in the village of Babcary, investment in a play area project at Queen Camel, the restoration of a pond at Countess Gytha Primary School, and new basketball equipment for The Charltons Community Centre.

National Highways launched its first Social Value Plan in October 2022, to support the wellbeing of communities living near its roads.