The LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival, taking place on 24-25 June 2026, continues to grow year on year, but one of the strongest indicators of its impact is the number of delegates who choose to return.
For many across highways and road infrastructure, the Festival is not simply an event to attend once. It is a platform for learning, collaboration and practical innovation that delivers lasting value long after the two days conclude.
Practical insight, real-world application
A consistent theme from returning delegates is the ability to access practical, applicable insight in one place.
Grish Lohani, Highway Engineer, Wiltshire Council, shared:
“What I found most valuable about the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival was the opportunity to see real, practical innovations being shared by people working across the industry, all in one place. The mix of technical insight, live demonstrations, and networking events made it both inspiring and genuinely useful. I particularly appreciated the diverse range of speakers and the interactive sessions which provided practical insights that I could apply immediately and record my CPD for every session I attended.
I would definitely recommend the event to others, as it offers a unique chance to learn, connect and stay ahead of the latest developments in this highways and infrastructure sector.”
The combination of CPD-accredited technical training, live demonstrations and structured networking ensures delegates leave with knowledge they can apply immediately within their own authorities and organisations.
Delivering measurable outcomes
For many public sector attendees, the value of the Festival is demonstrated in tangible follow-up activity.
Following attendance at the 2025 Innovation & Learning Festival, Mary Farrar, Corporate Lead Transportation at Calderdale Council, said:
“A BIG thank you for a great event at Stoneleigh. It’s already proving valuable. Following the conference, we connected with a business that is now developing a proposal for road safety services for us. Our team is also exploring new opportunities sparked by the event, including innovation in our gritting policy. We plan to reach out to others too. This is so helpful to us and the sector. I can’t emphasise that enough.”
The ability to connect directly with suppliers, innovators and industry leaders in a focused, collaborative environment continues to drive meaningful partnerships and practical change across the sector.
A balanced, purposeful audience
One of the defining strengths of the Festival is its strategic balance of public and private sector representation. With over 800 delegates attending in 2025, including representatives from more than 90 highway authorities across England, Scotland and Wales, the event provides a rare opportunity for open dialogue, shared learning and collaborative problem-solving.
Returning delegates consistently highlight:
- Access to real-world innovation
- CPD-certified learning opportunities
- Direct engagement with decision-makers
- Practical demonstrations of emerging technologies and ready-to-deploy solutions
It is this combination of learning, connection and measurable impact that continues to bring delegates back each year.
Join Us at the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2026
24-25 June
Fully funded places are available for public sector delegates, including accommodation, transport between hotel and venue, catering and refreshments.
Public and private sector apprentices are also encouraged to attend, with dedicated apprentice sessions and attendance at the DfT Special Recognition Apprentice Awards.
If you are committed to advancing highways and road infrastructure through collaboration, innovation and shared learning, the LCRIG Innovation and Learning Festival 2026 offers a platform designed to deliver real value.