With the deadline to enter the DfT Special Recognition Awards fast approaching, we are excited to introduce our esteemed judges. This panel of industry leaders will review submissions and select the shortlist ahead of the awards ceremony, taking place during Strictly Highways on the evening of 1 October.
Now in their sixth year, the DfT Special Recognition Awards were established by the late Steve Berry OBE, the Department for Transport’s former Head of Highways Maintenance, Innovation and Resilience. These awards continue Steve’s legacy, inspiring excellence and progress within the highways sector.
Meet Our Judges
Mollie Johnson – Head of Local Highways Funding Policy at Department for Transport
“As someone new to the role of Head of Local Highways Funding Policy, I’m delighted to be part of the judging panel this year. It’s a great opportunity to see the innovation happening across the sector and to learn from the inspiring work driving progress on net zero and skills development.”
Phillip Proctor – National Head of Research at National Highways
“I’m absolutely delighted to be judging the ‘Use of Technology’ and ‘Net Zero’ categories at the Strictly Highways Conference. I’m really looking forward to being inspired by the innovative and forward-thinking entries that are helping to shape the future of our roads.”
Ian Large – Head of Service, Highways and Traffic Management at Blackpool Council
“I’m delighted to serve as a judge for this year’s DfT Special Recognition Awards.
LCRIG plays a vital role in championing innovation and collaboration across the highways sector, and the awards are an excellent opportunity to celebrate the individuals and organisations making a real difference. It’s a privilege to help recognise and highlight the hard work, creativity, and commitment that continues to drive our industry forward.
LCRIG’s stewardship of the awards, and its commitment to facilitating innovation from within the highways community, has earned well-deserved respect. I’m proud to join a panel of judges tasked with recognising excellence and helping amplify these achievements through the industry.”
Joining Mollie, Phillip, and Ian on our judging panel are:
- Darren Capes – Head of Road Infrastructure Technology at the Department for Transport
- Tim Rowland-Deverell – Head of Local Highways Strategy and Environment, Local Highways and Active Travel at the Department for Transport
- Paula Claytonsmith – CEO at LCRIG
- Kerry Winstanley – Managing Director at LCRIG
- Keely Metcalfe – Relationship Manager at LCRIG
Don’t Miss Your Chance to Enter
There’s still time to submit your entry and recognise the outstanding achievements of colleagues, projects and initiatives. Entries close Friday, 15 August 2025 at 5pm.
Join Us at Strictly Highways
Public Sector delegate places are still available for Strictly Highways 2025. This event is not just an awards ceremony but also offers a comprehensive, CPD-accredited conference providing invaluable networking opportunities and discussions on key industry topics such as innovation, collaboration, and sustainability.
Apply now for a fully funded place.
Tables at the DfT Special Recognition Awards are also still available. Click here to book.
Thank you to our 2025 Award Sponsors:
