James

 

This project was looking at dynamic use of the hard shoulder on the M5 between junctions 2 to 6. I was involved from the beginning, carrying out the traffic economic appraisal. That involved analysing traffic levels and formatting that data to be used to show the benefit of the scheme in terms of reduced journey times. Assessments had to be carried out in line with Highways Agency guidelines and I had to liaise with other teams (such as Structures and Highway Design) to ensure our different assessments were heading in the same direction.

The best day was when all of our work came together from across the different disciplines and we were able to see the results for the whole scheme for the first time.

It is challenging but also hugely rewarding to be given such a level of responsibility on project work. I have the added benefit in that PB is paying for me to study part-time for a Masters in Transport Planning and Engineering at Leeds University. This means once a week I get to go over to Leeds to study whilst getting paid at the same time. Personally this is a great experience as it means I gain hands on experience of Transportation Planning, whilst also getting taught the theoretical side at the same time.