Winvic Construction Ltd has been awarded the Judges' Outstanding Achievement Award at this year’s National Highways Asset Community East (ACE) 'Better Together' Awards for its work on the Orwell Bridge Westbound Joint Replacement project.

The accolade recognises the company’s excellence in collaboration, innovation, and project delivery.

The scheme, delivered through National Highways' Scheme Delivery Framework (SDF) in the East Region, involved the urgent replacement of deteriorated expansion joints on the A14 Orwell Bridge, a vital transport link connecting the Port of Felixstowe with the wider UK road network. Despite significant technical and logistical challenges, the project was completed safely, on time, and within budget.

Collaboration was central to the project's success, with Winvic working closely alongside National Highways, WSP, Chevron, Maurer, and Roocroft from the planning stage through to delivery. Innovative techniques such as hydro demolition protected the bridge’s structure, while bespoke engineering solutions resolved complex design issues. Advanced traffic modelling was also employed to minimise disruption to road users.

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The judges highlighted the project for its outstanding stakeholder engagement and customer focus. Extensive communication campaigns before construction ensured public awareness and confidence, helping reduce the programme from a potential 175 days to just 37 days and saving £9 million.

Environmental performance, community engagement, and social value were also key achievements. Local suppliers were involved throughout, strengthening the regional economy and reducing environmental impact. The project team delivered a range of community initiatives, including safety awareness visits to over 120 pupils at Morland Primary School, volunteering at St. Elizabeth's Hospice's pop-up shop, and participating in events such as the Suffolk Show and Buttermarket Centre to promote road safety.

Rob Cook, Managing Director for Civils and Infrastructure at Winvic, said the award reflects the company's commitment to collaboration, innovation, and safety, and praised the project team and supply chain partners for their work.

Winvic was also shortlisted in multiple award categories, including Customer Experience of the Year, Project/Team of the Year, and Collaborative Project/Team of the Year. As both a finalist and sponsor of the awards, the company continues to champion best practices in the UK’s highways sector.