LCRIG’s flagship annual event, Strictly Highways 2026, returned to Blackpool in October, welcoming representatives from across the highways community for three days of networking, knowledge sharing and celebration.
The figures from this year’s event highlight its scale, from the number of delegates and local authorities represented to the speakers, exhibitors and industry partners who contributed to its success.
Here’s Strictly Highways 2026 in numbers.
Headline Figures
- 605 registered delegates joined us for Strictly Highways 2026
- Representing 96 different authorities, including 80 English authorities, 3 Welsh authorities, 3 Scottish authorities, 6 London boroughs and 4 combined authorities
- 105 supply chain organisations represented
- 253 public sector delegates attended
- 7 apprentices attended, gaining valuable opportunities to learn
- 53 exhibitors showcased the latest innovations and technologies across the exhibition hall
Conference and CPD
- 110 speaker submissions were received following LCRIG’s call for speakers, representing almost 36 hours of potential conference content
- Delegates took part in 30 conference sessions across the three-day event
- 63 expert speakers and panellists from local and national government, academia and industry shared practical case studies, industry updates and insights throughout the programme.
- A total of 2,552 CPD hours were earned, supporting professional development across the sector
Awards and Recognition
The DfT Special Recognition Awards evening saw 498 delegates come together to celebrate excellence and innovation across the sector.
- 8 awards were presented, including 1 new award, recognising achievements and innovation across the sector
- Judged by 7 industry experts
- Submissions represented over 124 organisations of all sizes, showcasing exciting cross-sector collaborations
- 29 entries were shortlisted across 8 award categories, recognising outstanding achievements from across the highways sector
- Supported by 8 award sponsors
- 8 winners and 6 highly commended entries were recognised
- 1 special award was also presented
Charity Fundraising
- £5,200 raised in support of 2 charities during the awards evening, Trinity Hospice and Rachael’s Retreat, in memory of Rachael Atkin.
Behind the Scenes
- The LCRIG team coordinated over 314 hotel rooms
- Delivered by a dedicated 11-person event team
- The total value of fully funded public sector delegate places reached £250,000, supporting local authority participation
Thank You
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of Strictly Highways 2026, including our delegates, speakers, panellists, exhibitors, partners and sponsors.
Your involvement helped make the event another valuable opportunity to share ideas, explore new approaches and strengthen connections across the highways community.
Looking Ahead to Strictly Highways 2027
Next year marks a special milestone as Strictly Highways celebrates its 10th year.
Strictly Highways 2027 will take place from 28–30 September at the Winter Gardens, Blackpool, and bookings are now open.
Join us as we celebrate a decade of Strictly Highways, with more opportunities to connect with colleagues, hear the latest industry updates, discover innovations and recognise achievements from across the sector.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Strictly Highways 2027.