Winter 2023/24
Marlborough Highways’ company magazine
Paving the way ahead Delivering in the London Borough of Hackney
Framework Contract win in Barnet
Unveiling Marlborough’s new Core Values
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marlboroughhighways.co.uk Printed on 100% recycled paper
Foreword from our MD “Welcome to the winter edition of Marlborough Highways News, our bi-annual magazine that showcases the outstanding work of our people across London and the South East. This edition is particularly special as we reflect on a period of significant achievement, despite the ongoing challenges of inflation, high energy prices, increased material costs, and uncertainty surrounding public investment in infrastructure. “I am delighted to report that we have secured a major new Maintenance Framework Contract in the London Borough of Barnet, which is a testament to our team’s expertise and commitment to excellence. And elsewhere in the Capital, our operations continue to expand and diversify, following contract wins in Camden earlier this year, and in Islington and Newham in 2022. “It was a pleasure to host our second Meet the Buyer & Charity Golf Day in September, with our ‘Green Solutions’ themed event connecting us with innovative suppliers who are helping us to achieve our 2025 Net Zero goal. I am proud of Marlborough’s environmental initiatives, with our increased sustainability efforts now making a real difference in the communities where we serve. “Following on from an extensive company consultation with staff, we are excited to unveil Marlborough’s new Core Values. They are bold, ambitious, compassionate, and remain true to Marlborough’s founding principles of openness, honesty and above all fairness. “In closing, I would like to pay tribute to my friend Brenda Woolf, the beloved wife of our company founder John Woolf, who sadly passed away in October. Brenda was a kind and loving person who has been at the heart of the Marlborough family since its inception in 1992. She will be deeply missed.” Matthew Revell, Managing Director, Marlborough Highways
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Ridley Road Market
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Delivering in Haringey
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Framework Contract win in Barnet
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An extensive £1.2m scheme has been delivered at Ridley Road market in the London Borough of Hackney
Marlborough is three years into a major Highways Contract with Haringey Council
Marlborough has secured a place on Barnet Council’s Highway Maintenance Framework
Beyond the Road
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We speak with Marlborough’s Bid Director Mark Ellerington in our big interview
Marlborough case studies
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Examining the East Beach car park scheme in Southend-on-Sea and Marlborough’s involvement in Dagenham’s landmark Eastbrook Studios project
Net Zero update
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Reviewing the company’s ambitious efforts to go Net Zero by the end of 2025
Brenda Woolf 1943-2023
Marlborough’s new Core Values
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Meet the Buyer & Charity Golf Day
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Investing in people
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Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award
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In memory of Brenda Woolf
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News in brief
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Marlborough’s journey to refreshing our core values
Returning for its second year, the high-profile industry event took place at Wanstead Golf Club
Exploring Marlborough’s recruitment drive
Marlborough has been accredited with the prestigious award, demonstrating the company’s commitment to military personnel
Remembering the beloved wife of Marlborough’s company founder John Woolf
The latest stories from across the organisation
4 | Marlborough Highways News
Image © James Renoux-Wood
Ridley Road Market improvement scheme London Borough of Hackney
Marlborough is enormously proud of the works it delivers in support of Hackney Council across a wide variety of services. In spring 2023, Marlborough completed a major £1.2m scheme at Ridley Road market in the eclectic community of Dalston.
Hackney Council had identified the space as one which needed revitalisation, commissioning Marlborough to deliver an ambitious renovation project, which began in February 2022. The scheme needed to transform the market into a safe, attractive and modern space, with the ultimate aim of attracting more footfall. The year-long scheme included surfacing works with the use of high-end granite paving, as well as the installation of new ground sockets for stalls, attractive new street
furniture and improved market signage. To reduce flood risk, the existing drainage system was enhanced and complimented by the introduction of a sustainable drainage system through the planting of strategically placed foliage. The project was managed in phases, including early morning and night works, to avoid disruption to the public and to local businesses, with normal market trading hours remaining in place throughout. To ensure the smooth delivery of the scheme, Marlborough and the Council liaised with stallholders, local shop owners and hospitality providers at every stage of the works. The rejuvenated Ridley Road Market now offers a more pleasant and welcoming environment for both traders and visitors, creating an inviting and bustling hub for the diverse mix of cultures that call Dalston home.
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Client feedback
“The scheme is great, it’s exactly what Ridley Road needed, the space now feels safe and welcoming, and the traders are doing good business. The work Marlborough has done is brilliant, schedules ran to time and any problems were quickly resolved; it’s a perfect working relationship.” Councillor Guy Nicholson Hackney Council
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Ridley Road is situated in the heart of Dalston and is home to a historic market, which has been in existence since the late Nineteenth Century. Today, Ridley Road Market is one of the most vibrant in the Capital and plays host to approximately 150 stalls offering a diverse range of quality goods and a unique combination of international flavours.
Mural installed On conclusion of the works, a fantastic gateway mural was installed in the market. Created by Carl Cozier and situated near the entrance from Kingsland High Street, the colourful design reflects the area’s vibrant and diverse heritage.
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Market open day
On Friday, 17 March 2023, the Ridley Road Market works were officially unveiled at a ribbon cutting and walkabout event, which was hosted by Marlborough and Hackney Council. Despite the wet weather, spirits remained high, with a fantastic atmosphere at the much-loved marketplace. Marlborough’s team hosted a stand throughout the day, where they gave away branded souvenirs and were on hand to answer questions about the scheme and the company’s wider programme of works across the London Borough of Hackney.
Project overview • Removal and safe disposal of existing asphalt. • Resurfacing works. • Creation of an attractive paved area, with the use of high-quality granite material. • New sustainable drainage measures to reduce flood risk through planting. • Placement of attractive new tree grilles. • Installation of bollards and new market signage. • Fitting of new ground sockets for 8x2m market stalls. • Addition of street furniture.
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Delivering in the London Borough of Haringey Marlborough is three years into a major Highways Contract with Haringey Council, providing essential maintenance services, reactive works, and public realms improvements across the borough. Working sustainably to create greener, cleaner, and safer communities, the company is committed to delivering first-class infrastructure projects for the fantastic people and businesses that call this part of London home. But it is Marlborough’s programme of social value initiatives in Haringey that brings the greatest pride, with the organisation’s school and college engagement sessions, charitable work, and community careers programmes, that are making a real and lasting difference.
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Public feedback
“Recently you resurfaced the road outside my house and the workmen have made a fabulous job of this difficult task. There was amazing teamwork and great attention to detail, making a challenging job, which included some raised areas, look easy. Thank you very much indeed for being so efficient and careful, we all appreciate it.”
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Resident, London Borough of Haringey
Drone footage of Marlborough’s team working on Ashley Road in the London Borough of Haringey.
Inspiring young minds Marlborough hosted six Year 12 work experience students at its Garman Road office. During the five-day placement, Kaya, Emmanuel, Ibrahim, Zak, Ace and Wenpei learned about the services they provide and the contracts that they operate for its local authority clients. The pupils from Highgate Wood School in the London Borough of Haringey had the opportunity to meet with a variety of employees and to go out on site, with engaging sessions arranged by the company’s marketing, quantity surveying, social value, and QHSE teams. 17-year-old Zak said, “I have really enjoyed my time with Marlborough. The experience has opened my eyes to the construction industry, I didn’t realise just how diverse and broad it could be.”
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Major Maintenance Framework Contract win in the London Borough of Barnet
Marlborough is excited to announce that it has secured a place on Barnet Council’s Highway Maintenance Framework. The four-year partnership involves planned carriageway and footway reconstruction works.
The award comes after a competitive bid process, in which Barnet Council procured highway maintenance works across 10 Lots. Companies were invited to bid on up to two Lots, with Marlborough winning works as the top-ranked bidder on Lot 5 and Lot 7. With a combined value of £6m per year, and up to £36m across the period, Lot 5 comprises road pavement and carriageway works, while Lot 7 consists of works to kerbs, footways, cycleways, and other paved areas. Marlborough is delivering the new works from its Garman Road depot, which is conveniently located just a few miles to the east of Barnet in the London Borough of Haringey and is home to a fleet of high-performance plant machinery and specialist highways maintenance vehicles. Marlborough’s dedicated Barnet team are supported by staff from Marlborough’s head office in Chelmsford, Essex, with its accredited
in-house training facilities and expert Quality, Health, Safety and Environment division. As part of Barnet Council’s efforts to foster a Thriving, Family Friendly, Healthy and Clean, Safe and Well-Run borough, Marlborough is conducting a significant series of social value initiatives throughout the Contract period. This includes prioritising resident employment through the creation of local jobs and apprenticeship placements, as well as the provision of training and educational courses delivered by qualified members of staff. Marlborough is also engaging with schools and colleges and supporting community organisations in Barnet through a range of initiatives including employee volunteering. Marlborough and Barnet Council have a shared commitment to sustainability, with the Council dedicated to becoming a Net Zero organisation by 2030, and a Net Zero borough by 2042. In support of these efforts, Marlborough is using ecofriendly building materials and employing pioneering construction methods throughout the borough, ensuring projects are delivered sustainably and to the highest quality. All schemes are being expertly assessed using an independently verified Carbon Footprint
Calculator, with electric vehicles, biofuel powered plant, and renewable energy supplies amongst the green technology being deployed. Furthermore, Marlborough is diverting 100% of the Contract construction waste from landfill. Marlborough already has a presence in nine other London boroughs, including in neighbouring Camden, Enfield and Haringey, bringing a huge amount of experience and know-how to Barnet. Marlborough’s team understands the area’s unique transport priorities and is dedicated to delivering the better roads, footways, and cycleways that residents need.
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“We are thrilled with the Barnet Highway Maintenance Works Framework award and are excited to be working in such a fantastic part of London. We are grateful to the Council for putting their trust in Marlborough, with our team passionately committed to delivering for the people of Barnet. Our commitment to community and sustainability aligns perfectly with the Council’s vision, and we look forward to effecting positive change together.” Matthew Revell, Managing Director Marlborough Highways
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Marlborough has secured a place on Barnet Council’s Highway Maintenance Works Framework. The four-year partnership commenced on 1 April 2023 and involves planned carriageway and footway reconstruction works in the London Borough of Barnet, with an option to extend for two further years.
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Beyond the road, Bids
In every edition of Marlborough Highways News, we connect with different Marlborough employees in an interview feature called “Beyond the Road.” In this issue, we explore the work winning approach taken by Marlborough with a particular focus on the last two years since Bid Director Mark Ellerington joined the business. to support us in writing our quality submissions, allowing us to reflect our first-class capabilities more accurately.
Joseph Revell Director
Describe the decision to hire a new Bid Director and the lead up to Mark’s appointment. “At Marlborough, we developed a business plan in 2017 to achieve sustainable growth in the regional highways maintenance market, which led to successes in Havering, Barking and Dagenham, Enfield and Brent. This was followed by long term contracts in Hackney and Haringey in 2020, establishing us as one of the major operators in the sector. As we made this transition from being a relatively small contractor to a large one, we worked closely with, and relied upon, a small number of partners to help us communicate our unique offering to the right people. We have always been competitive on price, but they were able
“As a leadership team, we recognised that to truly demonstrate the quality of our services to clients, we needed to build a permanent inhouse business development department, who lived and breathed our vision, mission and values. We needed the new team to be fully integrated with our operational divisions, with a continual line of communication between our people on the ground as well as with our Commercial and QHSE departments. To develop this new strategy, we needed a Bid Director to lead the initiative. “Rob Stranders, our Non-Executive Director, who has driven our bid team through this growth, led an extensive search and interview process. Before the end of 2021, he put forward Mark Ellerington, an experienced bidding professional with direct highways sector expertise, and specific knowledge of London. It was immediately clear that Mark was the right fit for the business and could quickly bring transformational change to the way in which we bid.”
Mark Ellerington Bid Director
Tell us about joining Marlborough “When I was approached by Marlborough I was aware of them as an emerging business in the highways market through my previous role. The fact that Rob had been with them for five years helped me to understand the potential of the business and the value I might be able to add. I joined in 2022 and have loved every minute of it. It’s a great business to be a part of – not just from my professional perspective due to their ambition to grow and improve, but also due to the way they do business – the inclusive and personal approach to their people, the investment they make in their offices, fleet and plant and their total commitment to pleasing their clients.”
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Surfacing works in the London Borough of Newham
Lauren Stapleton Junior Bid Writer
Lauren joined Marlborough Highways as a graduate in the summer of 2020 at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially promoting the organisation with the Marketing & Communications team, Lauren later transitioned to the Bids team, using her creative content skills to help the business expand and diversify. Lauren assists with the tender process by writing content, compiling case studies, and by conducting industry research. She also takes part in site visits, attends relevant conferences, and increasingly participates in new business strategy. The role requires good attention to detail, with Lauren involved in proof reading, the creation of presentations, and the development of a well maintained Bid Library. a trusted bid-writing professional consultant with whom I’d worked for over 20 years.
“It’s a great business to be a part of – not just from my professional perspective due to their ambition to grow and improve, but also due to the way they do business.” What were your priorities on joining the company? “During the first couple of months, I immersed myself in the business by getting around our contracts and corporate support functions to understand what the Marlborough ‘offer’ was and develop an approach for articulating that to potential clients, including through our quality submissions of course. This ‘deep dive’ also – importantly – helped me to understand the great work the business had been delivering which was crucial to being able to evidence past-performance.
“We were successful with both bids and the feedback / scores for the quality submissions were encouraging, providing the leadership team with the confidence they (and I!) needed on the direction of travel. We subsequently missed out on bids for similar contracts with Brent (by less than 1%) and Thurrock - but again the quality submissions scored highly – before securing a place on a long-term framework agreement with Barnet Council as the top-ranked bidder for surfacing and footpath reconstruction projects. “ How has your team grown?
“The development of a robust pipeline providing early visibility of target opportunities was another priority action which helped the leadership team understand the resource requirements for the year. “I also had to quickly get down to business as we had two important term contract bids – for Islington and Camden councils – to prepare and submit during Q2. To enable us to hit the ground running and achieve a step change in our quality responses I secured the services of
“Early in 2023, I appointed two new team members to the quality team – a Bid Writer and a Senior Bid Writer. They bring experience from the construction sector – including highways – and complement our need to diversify our offer to project delivery works, whilst ensuring we retain and enhance our capability in our ‘bread and butter’ highways term contract market. These new team members are supported by Junior Bid Writer, Lauren Stapleton, who has provided
Marlborough supports Lauren with her Association for Proposal Management Professional (APMP) training, giving her the time she needs to study. Already a Foundation Level member of the respected international bid writing body, Lauren hopes to use the knowledge gained to progress her career at Marlborough. “I was welcomed to Marlborough with open arms, everyone here is friendly and supportive, and I always get the help I need to thrive. There is a flexible, inclusive, and open culture, and while I am pushed to succeed, not once have I felt over-whelmed. I am motivated by the scope and variety of my work, that has me liaising with so many different stakeholders and colleagues across every part of the business. Being part of the Bids team allows me to make the most of my copywriting abilities; it’s a rewarding role in which I am quickly developing my industry knowledge and project management expertise.” much-needed continuity and knowledge having been with Marlborough since 2020. “The external consultant continues to support us, bringing best practice and ideas from bids he supports other companies on, which is hugely beneficial to us as we grow and develop. “We haven’t taken our eye off our approach to pricing though – far from it. Our Head of Estimating, Doug Ives, joined the business three months before me – we were both recruited from the same company. Doug is a hugely experienced and skilled estimator having significant experience in the highways term contract market. He has introduced a systemised approach to estimating using leading specialist software, enabling a transparent approach and full control over strategic commercial decisions made during the tender periods. “We have added a Senior Estimator with experience of tendering major projects, which further complements our approach to pursue this type of opportunity.” What are you working on now? “We’ve been busy with strategically important bids so far in 2023 and have several new bids and re-bids to come over the next few months. The decision we made in 2021 to invest in the work winning team has provided me and my fellow directors with the confidence we needed that we will consistently produce highquality, sustainable bids that will continue to appeal to existing and prospective clients.”
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Fact File Client: Southend-on-Sea City Council Date: April – August 2022 Duration: 4 months Value: £800,000 Project • Refurbishment of a large car park with 224 spaces and three coach bays • Construction of new pathways • Kerbing and line markings works • New signage and fencing • Drainage infrastructure works • Ducting for electric charging points throughout • Installation of 40 lighting columns
Marlborough Parking with purpose East Beach car park, a Southend-on-Sea case study Marlborough was tasked with carrying out major renovations to East Beach Car Park in the suburb of Shoeburyness on the Essex Coast. The scheme was the latest in a series of car park improvement projects to be commissioned by Southend-on-Sea City Council and to be carried out by Marlborough. Sustainability and accessibility were central to the new design, which would benefit beachgoers and rail commuters using the nearby Shoeburyness Station.
Team • 1 full time Project Manager • 1 Supervisor • 1 Trainee Supervisor • 5 Marlborough Operatives
The solution Marlborough’s innovative redevelopment plans comprised 224 car parking spaces, including 11 disabled bays, and an area to accommodate up to three coaches. The scheme, which matched the area footprint of the original site, encompassed two key phases of construction scheduled for spring and summer 2022, with the project needing to be completed ahead of the popular East Beach Reggae Festival in midAugust. A permeability test in advance of the works revealed the need to introduce a sustainable drainage system, with designs incorporating strategically placed swale features and shingle running the whole length of the car park. Phase one of the scheme saw the construction of foot and cycleways in and around the site, as well as the creation of a nearby temporary car park to give train users and beachgoers continued access. Excavations then took place with the use of lightweight equipment, meaning disruption was kept to a minimum. During phase two, ground and kerb works were carried out with the use of specialist low-carbon asphalt and a pioneering ExcelEdge aluminium material, resulting in a durable and robust new surface. The expertise of Marlborough’s in-house electricians was essential when installing ducting for future EV charging points, and when fitting 40 stylish LED lighting columns, each with its own solar and wind power generator.
The challenge East Beach Car Park serves the residents of Shoeburyness, including those who commute into London from the nearby railway station. The facility is also used by day-trippers and tourists wanting to visit the picturesque beach, with demand for parking higher during the warmer months. Overtime, East Beach Car Park became dilapidated, with an un-even surface, tired lighting, and poor pedestrian access deterring people from using it. As part of Southend-on-Sea City Council’s ambitious urban regeneration plans, East Beach Car Park was the latest such location to be identified for renovation works, following successful schemes in partnership with Marlborough elsewhere in the authority, including at Southchurch Park East in 2020. Southend-on-Sea City Council commissioned Marlborough with the planning and implementation of a full redevelopment project at the site, as part of a wider rejuvenation programme of the beach area, which would include a toilet block refurbishment and a
push to encourage the opening of new cafés and shops. The improved car park needed to be safe, well lit, accessible, and constructed with environmentally friendly materials. And given the proximity to the sea, designs needed to take into account the risk of flooding and the severe weather conditions which can occur there during the winter. In line with the Council’s commitment to become a carbon neutral city by 2030, the facility also had to be future proofed, with infrastructure for electric vehicle charging points required, and an energy efficient power source needed for the new lighting and CCTV system. “During the East Beach Car Park design and construction phase, Marlborough’s team were very flexible. The successful implementation of the scheme has provided Southend-onSea City Council, residents and visitors with a first-class facility, offering better access to our award-winning coastline and local amenities.” Martin Warren, Development Engineer, Southend-on-Sea City Council
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h case studies Lights, camera, action! Eastbrook Studios, a London Borough of Barking and Dagenham case study Eastbrook Studios is a vast £500m production complex under construction in Dagenham, which will provide state-of-the-art facilities to support the international film industry. Working in close collaboration with Be First and Barking and Dagenham Council, Marlborough Highways conducted pre-works around the site, creating the transport, drainage and utilities infrastructure needed to serve the new facility.
Fact File Client: Be First Date: July 2021 – July 2022 Duration: 1 year Value: £3.5m Project • Excavation of site • Re-alignment of existing roads • Construction of approximately 1km of new road • Installation of new ducting • The creation of new vehicle access points • Drainage works Team • 1 full time Project Manager • 1 full time Supervisor • Approximately 50 operatives • 12 administrative staff supporting from a dedicated onsite office Community benefits • 1,200 local jobs will be created once the facility is in full operation. • Eastbrook Studios is expected to contribute £35 million to the local economy each year. • The site will inspire more commercial development into the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham.
The challenge Ahead of the main development phase, Marlborough was commissioned with preconstruction infrastructure works by Be First, which is a Council established company that is responsible for leading and coordinating the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham’s regeneration efforts. Measures included the re-alignment of existing streets and the construction of new roads, the installation of high-tech cabling, the creation of new vehicle access points, and complex works to improve the site’s drainage. As a former industrial site, there were several challenges associated with the excavation works, with unknowns regarding the location of existing cables, piping and drainage infrastructure. Meanwhile, a disused pharmaceutical plant on the site heightened the risk of there being contaminated ground, with the potential of exposure to hazardous chemical materials. With a scheme of this scale, came the need to work with a variety of stakeholders, including local businesses, residents, utilities
companies and the multinational consortium Hackman Capital Partners, which is the Eastbrook Studios lead investor. World class infrastructure was required ahead of the construction of 12 sound stages, three acres of backlot, offices and ancillary space, with one of the primary objectives being the need to permanently divert through traffic away from the site. With this came a variety of unique challenges, with expert planning crucial to works being delivered in line with the wider project timelines, and the requirement for an innovative planning solution that would meet the needs of film production companies and local road users. “This was a very challenging project given the history and former usage of the site and limited service information. Marlborough Highways were instrumental in problem solving and ensuring that the works were completed on time, on budget and to a high standard.” Rob Wybrow, Construction Manager Civils & Infrastructure, Be First
The solution Marlborough, Be First and Barking and Dagenham Council collaborated to devise a year-long schedule of works that would deliver excellence and instil confidence in the wider project, while causing minimum disruption to the community. Expert teams were brought on site, with painstaking works carried out to map the subterranean features and the safety of the ground, before civils, surfacing and specialist ducting gangs worked collaboratively to realign, improve, and construct the required infrastructure, which included approximately 1km of new road. The works were completed to time and budget, with developers now on site, creating what will be one of Europe’s premium studios. To date, several international production companies have expressed interest in the facility, with Apple and Netflix amongst the high-profile corporations now associated with the development.
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Net Zero update
Fiona Cummings, Environment and Sustainability Officer Marlborough Highways
Early in 2022 Marlborough established a dedicated sustainability department in line with the company’s newly formed carbon reduction strategy. Led by Head of Performance, Sustainability and Social Value, Nick Reading, and supported by Environment and Sustainability Officer, Fiona Cummings, the team is guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and is committed to the Waste Hierarchy of Prevent, Reduce, Re-use, Recycle and Recover. The newly formed department has been working to optimise sustainable practices relating to Biodiversity, Supply Chain,
Materials, Waste, Energy, Transport and Plant. They have prioritised the use of local suppliers which offer low-carbon solutions, and where it has not been possible to eliminate emissions entirely, they have invested in carbon off-setting schemes, including in developing countries. This includes supporting an overseas Solar Energy power station, and as of August 2023, providing funds for the Arca Hydroelectricity Power Plant, which delivers clean and reliable energy to people and businesses in Turkey. With significant investment made, Marlborough’s Transport and Plant team has already expanded the company’s fleet of electric vehicles and machinery. Furthermore, the roll out of solar panels at Marlborough’s head office in Chelmsford, and EV charging points at the company’s four main sites, has seen a significant reduction in the businesses’ energy consumption. And Marlborough’s switch to 100% renewable utility tariffs, is contributing to the organisation’s ongoing shift away from fossil fuels.
In 2024 Marlborough will complete its companywide EV infrastructure programme and will expand its use of solar power, including at its London, Southend-onSea, and Brentwood sites. The company will also start to transition its hand tools to sustainable alternatives and begin trialling electric, and potentially, hydrogen generators. Then, by the end of 2025, Marlborough’s sustainability team aims to have 25% of its small vehicles as electric, with 10% of its work site electricity generated from green sources.
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“We know that protecting the environment is essential for the wellbeing of the planet, our clients, and the communities we serve. We are proud of the progress we have made on our journey to Net Zero, and we will continue to take bold steps. Over the next two years, we will embrace new technology, forge new partnerships with like-minded organisations, and invest in innovative products and services to achieve our ambitious goals.” Nick Reading, Head of Performance, Sustainability & Social Value Marlborough Highways
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In June 2022, Marlborough made an ambitious pledge to achieve Net Zero by the end of 2025, ahead of the UK Government’s deadline of 2050. A year and a half on, the company has made significant strides by improving it’s recycling efforts, minimising its own CO2 emissions, and working with suppliers and clients to reduce the carbon footprint resulting from third parties.
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Sustainability news Going electric with 10 Nissan Townstars
Marlborough has taken delivery of 10 fully electric Nissan Townstar vans, pictured here at the company’s Woolf House headquarters in Chelmsford. With a range of 183 miles per charge, the brand-new vehicles come with a variety of safety features, including lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. With existing charging points at the Essex office, and more being rolled out at our other depots, users can charge the vans quickly and easily whenever needed.
Eco-friendly PPE
Marlborough has recently taken delivery of a batch of ecofriendly high-visibility jackets, which are made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. Pictured here on trial in the London Borough of Newham, the EcoViz® tops from Leo Workwear are made from lightweight material and offer comfort while keeping wearers cool.
Success at the CIHT East of England Conference and Awards
Marlborough was proud to sponsor the 2023 Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (CIHT) East of England Conference and Awards, which took place on 23 October at the Cambridge Belfry Hotel & Spa. The event brought together leading industry figures from across the region, with guests given the opportunity to network and to celebrate in the sector’s shared success. This year’s key theme was Sustainability, with the event titled the ‘Race To Net Zero’. It was a thought-provoking day with experts from across highways and transportation presenting a range of initiatives for addressing the climate emergency. CIHT President, Karen McShane, and CIHT East of England Chairman, Ross Percy-Jones, presented Marlborough with two awards at the prestigious event. Marlborough’s Social Value Manager, Nula Krawczynski (pictured left), won the Emerging Professional of The Year Award for her outstanding community efforts and dedication to charitable causes. Secondly, Marlborough’s Environment and Sustainability Officer, Fiona Cummings (pictured right), was Highly Commended in the same category for the fantastic initiatives she has delivered as part of the organisation’s journey to Net Zero.
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Community Connection Our new Core Values
What makes us who we are Marlborough is excited to unveil its new company core values, which have been developed in response to the organisation’s unprecedented growth and diversification. Led by the Executive Board and Marlborough’s HR Director, Kate Chambers, the four principal values have been carefully curated through an extensive process, starting with a comprehensive employee survey, and followed by four staff focus groups.
We know people matter
The engagement sessions demonstrated a strong sense of teamwork amongst Marlborough’s people and a shared feeling of company pride, ambition and spirit. It was this employee voice that shaped the chosen core values, which reflect the very best of the organisation’s existing culture, while instilling a sense of confidence for the future. The new values, which are being embedded into the company culture and are set to be depicted in an upcoming video, places people at the heart of the business and reminds us that the wellbeing of employees, clients, and the public, is always Marlborough’s number one priority.
An employee focus group led by Kate Chambers (second from right)
We respect, care and invest in our people, the communities in which we work and our common future. We are open, honest and above all fair.
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Red Star Awards Marlborough’s Red Star Awards will return on 12 January 2024 at the Stock Brook Country Club in Essex. Each year, the glamourous event recognises and rewards Marlborough’s people, and provides an opportunity to celebrate in the company’s shared success. With more than 250 guests set to attend from every part of the organisation, there are eight award categories spanning Superstar, Most Supportive, Best Manager, The Motivator, Excellent Feedback, Keeping Us Safe, Rising Star, and Gang or Team of the Year. Each of those
shortlisted has been nominated by a fellow member of staff, with hundreds of individual entries going to an impartial judging panel for review. This year’s awards have evolved in line with Marlborough’s refreshed values, with each nomination needing to explain how an
individual or team best exemplifies one or more of the new core values. And the wide range of award types has ensured that people from across the business are represented, with front line operatives, office-based staff, apprentices, and managers amongst those to be celebrated.
We take pride in everything we do
We have spirit
We are bold
We speak positively, deliver quality, act safely. Always.
We promote a positive atmosphere and energy, through inclusivity, brilliant team working and friendships. Driving success so we all win.
We are confident, optimistic and trust in our ability. We look forward and are excited about our progressive future.
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Driving green solutions with Marlborough’s Meet the Buyer & Charity Golf Day Marlborough was delighted to host it’s Meet the Buyer & Charity Golf Day at Wanstead Golf Club in East London on 26 September 2023. Returning for its second year, the high-profile industry event attracted over 60 attendees, with participants from the highways, construction, and engineering sectors. In line with Marlborough’s commitment to reach Net Zero by the end of 2025, the theme of the event was ‘Green Solutions’. Marlborough’s team were interested in organisations that could help the company to operate more sustainably, with new and existing suppliers in attendance. Delegates had the opportunity to showcase their latest products to a captive audience, while learning about Marlborough’s procurement process. Access Hire Nationwide, Aggregate Industries UK, BBS Brick & Stone, Eurovia, Hanson, Kinley, North London Plant Hire and Tarmac
were amongst the commercial organisations to attend, while representing Marlborough’s client base were Islington Council and Ringway Jacobs. In addition to the day’s focus on sustainability, Marlborough was also pleased to welcome Kristina Carrington, the Regional Employer Engagement Director of the RFCA, who addressed the delegation about the benefits of the Armed Forces Covenant, a military initiative in which employers pledge to treat members of the Defence Community with dignity and respect (see more on page 20). The morning networking session was followed by a round of golf in support of the mental health charity, Mind. The fine weather saw more than 20 players enjoy a fantastic afternoon on the 18-hole, par 69 course, with £600 raised.
Fiona Cummings Environment and Sustainability Officer Marlborough Highways
“Our second Meet the Buyer Day was an enormous success. Building on last year, we had a great turnout, and we were impressed by the quality of the products and services on show. We are particularly grateful to those who presented and are encouraged by the attendee’s shared commitment to sustainability. We would also like to thank everyone who took part in the round of golf and for their generous donations; it was a wonderful afternoon.”
Client feedback
“We have met loads of fantastic suppliers today and it has been great for relationship building. We all want to work in a greener and cleaner way, with events like these inspiring collaboration and innovation.”
Yasmin Mahmoudi Inclusive Business Growth Manager Islington Council
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Supplier feedback
“It’s been a very good day, with a great opportunity to network. The event has allowed us to get our products in front of the right people and it has helped us to better understand our client needs.” William Cann Account Manager Kinley
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Jack Dighton Strategic & Supply Chain Procurement Manager Marlborough Highways
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“There was a brilliant atmosphere at our Meet the Buyer event, and I was particularly pleased at the level of engagement in our ‘Green Solutions’ theme. It’s clear that there is a strong appetite for innovation in the highways sector, which is essential for achieving our Net Zero goals. I would like to thank all the attendees for their enthusiasm, we know the importance of forging new relationships and building on existing ones.”
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Investing in people Marlborough believes that its people are its greatest asset, and their HR team want to recruit, develop and retain a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the communities in which it serves. As a fast growing and well-respected organisation, Marlborough is passionate about creating a friendly and tolerant environment where everybody feels valued, with career progression placed at the heart of the recruitment strategy. Marlborough takes pride in its workforce and is committed to individual and group success, which is why the business offers ongoing training and development programmes, a fantastic benefits package, and an industry beating apprenticeships programme, allowing the company to pass on its expertise to the next generation of highways professionals.
Mid Essex Careers Fair
Jobs and Skills Fair
Marlborough recently exhibited at the Mid Essex Careers Fair alongside other local and national employers. During the productive session at the Meadows shopping centre in Chelmsford, the company’s HR and recruitment teams spoke with job seekers about opportunities in the construction sector, including the fantastic roles on offer at Marlborough.
Marlborough’s team had a great day at the Jobs and Skills Fair in the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham. During the event they provided residents with jobs guidance and spoke about the exciting career paths on offer at the company and in the wider construction industry.
There was a strong turnout, with school leavers, individuals seeking to re-enter the workforce, and those exploring a career change at the event.
Gemma Connelly, Workforce Development Manager, Barking and Dagenham Council said, “Thank you so much for coming along, it was busy with over 500 residents engaging. This was our first outdoor event on this scale, so hope you found it beneficial.”
Marlborough’s new recruitment video goes live
Marlborough is delighted to announce the release of a new recruitment video, which showcases the organisation’s diverse range of career opportunities. Available to view on YouTube and the company website, the video features staff working in various roles right across the organisation. Designed to give an insight into life at Marlborough, the video aims to inspire and excite job seekers and was created in response to Marlborough’s growth and diversification, with the company seeing significant expansion in London over the last few years. The two-minute-long film depicts an innovative, modern, and welcoming company, which offers great workplace benefits and career progression. Search ‘Why Marlborough Highways’ to watch the video now.
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Natasha Gibney, Resourcing Partner, Marlborough Highways Natasha joined Marlborough in a newly created role in September 2022 and is responsible for the company’s recruitment efforts. With a decade of private and public sector experience and expertise, she is passionate about helping people advance their careers and is committed to providing guidance and support to individuals throughout the hiring process. “At Marlborough we value the hard work, dedication, and expertise of our people, and strive to provide them with a supportive and rewarding work environment. We understand that competitive rates of pay, and a comprehensive benefits package are crucial for attracting and retaining top talent in our sector. That is why we offer industry leading benefits that include a health cash plan, life cover, a private pension, and more. But our commitment to our employees extends beyond just compensation and benefits. At Marlborough, we take pride in our team and are committed to their success, which is why we invest in ongoing development programmes to help our people grow and excel in their careers. “The last year has been fantastic, with the opportunity to review and refresh our processes, and to introduce new tools to improve our ways of working. There are exciting times ahead and I look forward to bringing onboard some brilliant new talent to our company.”
Industry leading training Marlborough is committed to providing all its staff with quality training opportunities from the day they join the company. Their learning and development programmes are tailored to suit individual needs, with its LANTRA and NPORS accredited training teams drawing on the expertise of some of the industry’s most experienced professionals. Marlborough’s two full-time instructors are dedicated to helping staff develop and thrive in their careers.
Learn more about the career opportunities at Marlborough marlboroughhighways.co.uk/careers
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Serving the men & women who serve us Showing support with the Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award
As Bronze members of the Armed Forces Covenant scheme since March 2022, the increase to Silver status follows efforts by their team to strengthen its support for the Defence Community. This includes the provision of flexible employment opportunities for Reservists, tailored training programmes for Service Leavers, and the creation of a positive and inclusive working environment for Veterans. Marlborough is now seeking Gold membership, which involves becoming an advocate of the scheme by encouraging others to join.
Kristina Carrington is the Regional Employer Engagement Director at the East Anglia Reserve Forces’ and Cadets’ Association (RFCA). She promotes the Armed Forces Covenant scheme, helping organisations like Marlborough to further their support for current and former military personnel and their families.
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“We are grateful to Marlborough, who’s support for Service Leavers, Veterans and Reservists is clearly ingrained throughout the organisation. I can see that the commitment is there, and they have already made good strides towards attaining Gold status.” Kristina Carrington Regional Employer Engagement Director East Anglia RFCA
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In July 2023 Marlborough was accredited with the Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award, which demonstrates the company’s commitment to both active and former service personnel.
Fairer recruitment Marlborough is committed to employing more Veterans and Service Leavers, which is achieved through its engagement with the Career Transition Partnership (CTP); a government initiative that provides support to exservice personnel as they transition back into civilian life. In addition, Marlborough’s recruitment team works with ForceSelect to advertise new roles exclusively to the Armed Forces Community before they are promoted elsewhere.
MOD Employer Recognition Scheme Awards Dinner On 19 October 2023, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Julie Spence and Lt Col Jim Turner, Dep Comd HQ Centre, presented Marlborough with the Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award. Gratefully received by the company’s Head of Performance, Sustainability & Social Value, Nick Reading (pictured centre right), and Director, Joseph Revell (pictured centre left), the Ministry of Defence ceremony and dinner took place at the magnificent Madingley Hall in Cambridge.
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In memory of Brenda Woolf, 1943-2023
It is with great sadness that Marlborough announces the passing of Brenda Woolf, beloved wife of its company founder John Woolf and devoted mother to Philip and Matthew. Brenda passed away after a courageous battle with cancer in October 2023, she was 80 years old. As the Company Secretary since the founding of the organisation in 1992 until 2010, Brenda was a cherished member of the Marlborough family, and will be deeply missed by all those who knew her. “I had the privilege of knowing Brenda for many years, and I will always remember her compassion for others, infectious personality, and great sense of humour. Not only was she a kind, caring, and generous person, but Brenda was also a brilliant and dedicated professional, who played a vital role in the success of our company. She was a true friend to many of us and will forever be in our hearts. Our thoughts are with John and his family during this difficult time, please join us in extending our deepest condolences.” Matthew Revell, Managing Director, Marlborough Highways Images: Brenda and John Woolf are pictured at Marlborough’s 30-year anniversary celebrations at Boreham House in May 2022.
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The road ahead: News in brief Goresbrook interchange (Witches Hats) double roundabout, London Borough of Barking and Dagenham
Spelling success with the Witches Hats surfacing scheme
Marlborough devised a five-phase schedule of works. Taking place at night, to minimise disruption, 20 operatives worked each shift, with an innovative programme of road closures keeping vehicles moving throughout. While Marlborough’s Traffic Management team implemented diversions, including with the use of a brightly lit IPV, surfacing gangs took their positions so that they could begin operations without delay. Every night an entire section of the roundabout was completed. This included the removal of the existing surface, the laying of asphalt, the compaction of the tarmac, and the placement of line markings. Each completed section was then re-opened the following morning, in time for rush hour traffic.
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“Marlborough brought a wealth of expertise to the double roundabout scheme at the Goresbrook interchange, allowing for the job to be completed quickly, safely and to a high standard. Drawing upon their wealth of experience from previous works here in Barking and Dagenham and elsewhere in London, I am grateful to Marlborough’s team for devising effective traffic management solutions for the unique challenges posed by this project.” Graham Nichols, Construction Manager Be First
A sustainable solution in the London Borough of Haringey In partnership with Haringey Council and Muf Architecture, Marlborough has deployed an innovative new product to help divert surface water away from a busy road in Caxton Gardens in North London (pictured left). German manufactured beams by HAHN Plastics have been used to create weirs, which carry water from high points and channel it to the verge, where it is naturally absorbed. Made from 100% recycled plastic, which itself can be recycled, the reinforced beams have the appearance of real wood, so compliment the local environment. Yet the material is strong, durable, and flexible, which has allowed Marlborough and Muf Architecture to purpose the product in this pioneering way. The project now complete, rainwater is being filtered on to soft landscaping, rather than going into the main sewer.
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In close collaboration with Be First and Barking and Dagenham Council, Marlborough has completed a major surfacing scheme at the Goresbrook interchange double roundabout, known locally as the Witches Hats.
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Pothole repairs
Charity Golf Day
Brittons Academy, Havering
Marlborough’s Surfacing and Traffic Management team had the pleasure of welcoming Hackney Council to a site near London Fields. During the morning works on Wilton Way, representatives assisted with the repair of a pothole, working alongside Marlborough’s expert operatives. The initiative was in support of the Council’s desire to keep the roads safe for cyclists and pedestrians, as part of a £5m investment in 2023 to ensure infrastructure remains fit for purpose.
Marlborough was proud to sponsor the Mayor of Southend-on-Sea’s Charity Golf Day at the Garon Park Golf Club. A group of Marlborough players competed against 11 other teams from across the local business community, raising £4,000 for Havens Hospices and the Music Man Project Essex. It was a fantastic event, concluding with trophies presented for the longest drive, the shot nearest to the pin, and the overall winner.
Marlborough had a productive morning at the Brittons Academy careers fair in the London Borough of Havering. With around 400 Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 students in attendance, their team provided careers advice and discussed the types of jobs on offer in the highways sector. There was plenty of interest in the company, particularly from girls who wanted to know more about women in construction.
Haringey rain gardens
Macmillan Cancer Support
Cobi Charity Challenge
Marlborough has unveiled four rain gardens in front of Noel Park Primary School in the London Borough of Haringey. Working in partnership with Haringey Council and the architectural landscaping specialists Skidmores, the project comprises 14 trees and approximately 1,000 plants. Built using granite rain kerbs and impressive mud stone sedimentary rock features, the scheme is helping to lower pollution next to the school and has reduced the need for traditional drainage.
There was a great turnout for Marlborough’s coffee morning in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. Taking place at the company’s head office in Chelmsford, there were delicious cakes for sale and a charity raffle, with fabulous prizes up for grabs. £489 was raised, with every penny going to help people living with cancer.
In celebration of Home-Start Essex’s 50-year anniversary, Marlborough took part in the 50 for 50 Cobi Bike Charity Challenge. Six members of staff took to a unique seven-seater Cobi bike to compete against other local teams, with the £1,775 raised going to support underprivileged families based in Essex. There was a great atmosphere, with Marlborough’s team completing a seven-mile lap in an impressive time of 1hr 5mins.
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