The LCRIG Innovation & Learning Festival 2026 brought together local authorities, suppliers, government, academia and industry partners from across the UK for two days of learning, collaboration and innovation at NAEC Stoneleigh.
From inspiring speakers and CPD-certified technical training to live demonstrations, networking, the first LCRIG Hackathon Sprint and the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards, this year’s Festival showcased the people, ideas and innovations helping to shape the future of the highways sector.
While the soaring temperatures certainly tested everyone over the two days, the enthusiasm, collaboration and willingness to share knowledge never wavered.
Take a look back at some of the highlights from Innovation & Learning Festival 2026, captured across two unforgettable days at NAEC Stoneleigh.
Live Demonstrations
The live demonstrations gave delegates the opportunity to see some of the latest highways innovations in action, from permanent pothole repairs and in-situ recycling to technology software solutions and electric recycled rubber mastic repairs.
Technical Training Theatre
The Technical Learning Theatre welcomed delegates for two days of CPD-certified training, with industry experts sharing knowledge, practical insights and best practice across a broad range of highways topics. Day Two also began with a special appearance from Luca the humanoid robot, bringing a memorable and light-hearted start to another packed day of learning.
Indoor Exhibition
The indoor exhibition was filled with valuable conversations, as delegates explored the latest products and services, connected with suppliers and caught up with colleagues from across the highways sector.
Outdoor Exhibition
The outdoor exhibition gave delegates the opportunity to get up close with the latest specialist equipment, vehicles and technologies, while speaking directly with the teams behind the innovations.
TTF Innovation & Learning Tent
The TTF Innovation & Learning Tent hosted a packed programme of interactive sessions, bringing delegates together to explore new ideas, hear the latest industry updates and collaborate on the first LCRIG Hackathon Sprint.
Apprentice Sessions
Supporting future talent remained a key focus of the Festival, with dedicated apprentice sessions providing opportunities to collaborate, develop new skills and build valuable connections with industry professionals.
DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards
The DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards celebrated the outstanding achievements of apprentices from across the highways sector, recognising the talent, dedication and potential of the next generation of highways professionals.
A huge thank you to all our sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and attendees for making this year’s Innovation and Learning Festival such a success.
Want to be part of it next year?
Early Bird bookings for Innovation & Learning Festival 2027 are now officially open. Organisations that book before 5pm on 2 October can secure 2026 rates, secure a prime exhibition location and maximise their visibility ahead of the event. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of the UK’s leading highways innovation event.
secure your place today(Images – LCRIG)