A significant upgrade to the A303 in Somerset has earned top honours at the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) South West Engineering Awards 2025. The £155 million dualling of the 3.5-mile stretch between Sparkford and Ilchester, delivered by National Highways and contractor Galliford Try, received the prestigious ‘Showcase Award’ — the event’s highest accolade.
This major infrastructure project transformed the formerly single carriageway into a dual carriageway, incorporating three new junctions, two large structures, and extensive earthworks. Judges praised the development as a “landmark achievement” that exemplifies outstanding infrastructure delivery through ambition, teamwork, and engineering excellence.
The upgrade is expected to generate over £3 in benefits for every £1 invested, thanks to improved journey times and increased reliability for motorists and visitors travelling between the South East and South West. Miranda Housden, regional director of ICE South West, highlighted the awards' recognition of both emerging and seasoned engineering talent and underscored the significance of meaningful public engagement throughout the project.
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This accomplishment not only advances regional connectivity but also showcases the positive impact civil engineering has on communities and the broader South West region.