The LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2026 will take place on 24 and 25 June at NAEC Stoneleigh, bringing together the highways and road infrastructure technology community for two days of learning, collaboration and innovation.
Now entering its fifth year, the Festival has firmly established itself as a key event for industry professionals committed to advancing highways and road infrastructure technology. Designed to be practical, inclusive and forward-looking, it provides a trusted platform for knowledge exchange between the public and private sectors.
With strong demand already evident, organisations considering exhibiting or sponsoring are encouraged to book early, particularly those wishing to apply to deliver a CPD-accredited technical training session.
Early booking deadline: Friday 27 February
Exhibitors who secure their stand by Friday 27 February will be eligible to apply to deliver a CPD-certified technical training session at the Festival.
CPD sessions are a central element of the Innovation and Learning Festival programme and are delivered exclusively by sponsors and exhibitors. These sessions provide an opportunity to share technical expertise, showcase innovation, and position organisations as thought leaders, while supporting professional development across highways and road infrastructure.
In addition, organisations that confirm their participation early will benefit from extended visibility across LCRIG’s marketing and communications activity in the lead-up to the Festival.
Demand for CPD sessions is consistently high, and applications are subject to a review and approval process. Booking a stand by the deadline ensures eligibility to apply and avoids missing this valuable opportunity.
Further information on the CPD application process is available here.
Building on the success of 2025
The 2025 Innovation and Learning Festival welcomed over 800 delegates including over 400 delegates from more than 80 highway authorities across England, Scotland and Wales. Attendees also included supply chain organisations, government representatives including the Department for Transport, industry bodies, academia and the media.
The Festival continues to play a vital role in supporting collaboration, accelerating innovation and sharing best practice across the sector.
Charlotte Bromley, Head of Events at LCRIG, commented:
“We are already seeing strong interest in the 2026 Festival, with a number of exhibition stands secured, including organisations that have supported the event since its early years. That continued commitment reflects the value exhibitors see in being part of the Festival. We would encourage those considering participation to book early to secure their place and benefit from the full range of exhibitor opportunities.”
What to expect at the 2026 Festival
Across two days, the Innovation and Learning Festival will offer a comprehensive programme designed to support learning, engagement and meaningful connection.
Live demonstrations
Large-scale outdoor demonstrations showcasing highways and road infrastructure technology in action. Following the success of previous years, 2026 will feature new innovations, expanded demonstrations and technology launches.
CPD-accredited technical training
Immersive indoor and outdoor sessions delivered by sponsors and exhibitors, focusing on emerging practices, innovation and future challenges facing the sector.
Indoor and outdoor exhibitions
A diverse exhibition featuring organisations of all sizes, from innovative start-ups and SMEs to global suppliers, industry associations and government bodies.
Start-Up Zone
Funded exhibition spaces for eligible start-ups and early-stage businesses, supporting LCRIG’s commitment as a Community Interest Company to encourage innovation and collaboration across the highways community.
Outdoor Technology and Skills Tents
Interactive spaces focused on innovation and learning, featuring panel discussions, debates and talks designed to spark new ideas, share insight and support the skills shaping the future of the sector.
DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards
Celebrating emerging talent and recognising the valuable contribution apprentices make to the future of highways and road infrastructure technology.
Dedicated apprentice sessions
Inclusive sessions designed to support skills development, collaboration and peer learning for apprentices at all stages of their development within the highways and road infrastructure sector.
Purposeful networking
A carefully balanced audience and structured programme ensure meaningful engagement between public sector professionals, decision-makers and the supply chain.
An accessible and inclusive event
Thanks to the continued support of sponsors and exhibitors, LCRIG is proud to offer fully funded places for public sector delegates and apprentices, including accommodation, transport between hotel and venue, catering and refreshments.
This approach ensures the Festival remains accessible and delivers value across the whole highways community.
Secure your place
Organisations interested in exhibiting at the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2026 are encouraged to secure their place early.
Booking by Friday 27 February ensures eligibility to apply for a CPD session and access the full range of exhibitor benefits.
Click here to secure your place and register now.