MHA+ Annual Event and Awards 2026

Information for attendees is now live

Highways and Transport: The Future

Our flagship annual showcase returns on 23 September 2026 at Holywell Park Conference Centre, Loughborough, and this year we are looking ahead.

With major changes ahead for local government, and a national drive for economic growth and infrastructure delivery, the highways and transport sector faces both real challenges and genuine opportunities. This year’s event explores how planning, policy, innovation, technology and sustainability can work together to shape what comes next.

The CPD certified day connects MHA+ members and their supply chain partners for a full programme of expert speakers, real world case studies and interactive workshops – all focused on how we can work collaboratively to deliver better outcomes for our communities.

What to Expect

This face-to-face event brings together MHA+ members and their supply chains for collaborative learning and networking, featuring expert speakers, real-world case studies and interactive workshops led by industry specialists.

Key Sessions:

🎤 Keynote Speakers. Adrian Coy (East Midlands Infrastructure Partnership) and Darren Capes (Department for Transport) sharing strategic insights on cross-sector infrastructure growth and the future vision for roads and transport.

🏛️ Local Government Reorganisation. Nick Henstock, Service Director for Highways and Transport at West Northamptonshire Council, shares first hand experience of creating a new unitary authority, essential insight for anyone preparing for change ahead.

🚌 Integrated Transport & Smart Cities. Sessions exploring the bigger picture on mobility hubs, buses, rail and active travel, alongside a look at autonomy as a service, including autonomous vehicles, drones and robots on public highways.

💻 Technology Showcase. A look at the latest innovations from leading technology suppliers, with a focus on exciting developments in digital and AI shaping the future of infrastructure and highways delivery.

🌊 Resilient Networks. Expert led sessions from Transport for West Midlands on climate risk and vulnerability assessment, and on managing the West Midlands regional network, including the role of the Regional Traffic Control Centre.

🛣️ Roads & Highways. Sessions on highways asset management, transparency and benchmarking, including perspectives from Lancashire County Council , alongside insights from LGTAG on best practice across local authority services.

🎓 Professional Development. Sessions from Telford & Wrekin Council, Amey Consulting and from Galliford Try, sharing practical, award winning approaches to building skills for the future.

🤝 Networking Marketplace. MHA+ framework suppliers will be present in a networking space, connect with framework and delivery managers throughout the day.

Annual Awards 2026

This year’s three categories recognise outstanding innovation delivered through MHA+ frameworks:

🏆 Best Use of Innovation to Build Resilience – adapting infrastructure for the challenges ahead

🏆 Best Use of Innovation in Local Transport – improving how people and goods move

🏆 Best Use of Innovation in Construction of Local Infrastructure – building and maintaining the infrastructure our communities depend on

Shortlisted entrants will present at the Annual Event, with winners decided on the day by a vote of attendees. More details in the full awards rules.

Who should attend

This event is designed for MHA+ members, highways and transport professionals from local authorities and framework partners who want to stay ahead of the changes shaping our sector.

Members, book your place

If you have an MHA+ Learning Management System (LMS) account, log in at https://mhaplus.vc-enable.co.uk/Login to book your place.

The event is pinned on the LMS landing page. Select it to request your place – you will receive an email confirmation once your booking is processed. If you cannot see it on the landing page, select the Events tab and then Available Events.

Once booked, you can add the event to your Outlook calendar with a single click

On the day

Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. You can find out more about the Holywell Park venue in Loughborough.

When booking, you can send us a message through the LMS to let us know about any dietary requirements or other preferences.

New to the LMS

If you need help setting up or accessing your account, guidance is available in the Learning Management System user guide.

Practical Information

Location: Holywell Park Conference Centre, Loughborough (Google Maps directions)

Parking: Free on-site parking, register your vehicle details on the reception tablet.

WiFi: Free access, code: 0075