Join us to celebrate the Scottish Civil Engineering Awards 2026 at the EICC on the 25th of September.
This year, our host for the afternoon will be Laura Miller. Laura is the face of BBC Scotland’s main news programme, Reporting Scotland. She has been on the front line of reporting and presenting news in Scotland for the past two decades and has covered some of the biggest stories of recent times. We are looking forward to having a host of Laura's esteem hosting our awards!
Friday 25th September 2026
Edinburgh International Conference Centre, 150 Morrison Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8EE
12 Noon - 5pm
Tables can be bought in the following formats:
Tickets are priced at £95 + VAT each. Please contact lorraine@cecascotland.co.uk with how many tickets you would like.
Entries for the awards are now closed and judging is underway.
2026 Entries
| Balgray Station | Markle Level Crossing Replacement | Loch Katrine - Peatland Restoration |
| Kincardine XD130 Foundation and Access Remedial Works | Corstorphine Road Project - Improving Urban Waters | Forth & Clyde East Flight Locks 4 to 20 |
| Dunfermline City Campus | East Glenlatterach Reservoir Flood and Access Works | Govan Graving Docks |
| Provost Driver Court | Trunk Mains Investigation Works | North Bridge Refurbishment Project |
| Bertha Park Perth Tay Street Super Sewer | New Islay Vessel Enabling | Arbroath - A Place For Everyone |
Balgray Station is a new, fully accessible railway station delivered by Story Contraction on the Nelson line between Glasgow Central and Barrhead, on behalf of Network Rail. It provides a modern transport gateway for south Barrhead as part of the Glasgow City Region City Deal programme.
The £18.3m station provides step-free access throughout, with two platforms connected by a footbridge and lifts, plus waiting shelters, ticket machines, secure cycle storage and an 80-space car park with electric vehicle charging. New walking and cycling links connect nearby communities to the station and the Dam to Darnley County Park, encouraging active travel and wider community use.
Built in a highly constrained live railway environment, the team used a buildability-led approach and off-site manufacturing to reduce time on site and minimise disruption. Modular platform components and factory-made precast units improved safety, quality and programme certainty while keeping the railway running.
Sustainability was embedded from the outset. All excavated material was reused on site, achieving zero waste to landfill diversion reached 85.7%. Carbon assessments identified material hotspots, enabling targeted reductions, and a hybrid power solutions saved around 2,084 liters of fuel per month, avoiding 6,799kg of carbon dioxide equivalent each month.
Community engagement was at the heart of delivery, transforming lives through generating £264,839 in social value through apprenticeship, work placements, STEM sessions, volunteering and support for local charities. Balgray Station will improve journey choice, accessibility and regional connectivity for years to come leaving a legacy within the Barrhead area.
The Markle Level Crossing Replacement project has transformed how people move through the village of Markle by replacing a traditional level crossing with a new single-span bridge and 1km bypass to the south of the community.
Delivered for East Lothian Council and funded by Transport Scotland, the project removed the need for vehicles to cross the East Coast Main Line at grade, significantly improving safety for both road users and the operational railway. By diverting traffic away from the village centre, the scheme has created a quieter and safer environment for local residents.
An innovative construction approach was adopted, using modular precast concrete units to form the bridge abutments, reducing the need for temporary formwork and enabling delivery without disruptive rail closures, with most works completed during daytime hours. The bridge abutments were constructed using 284 modular precast units, marking the first use of this method for a project of this type in Scotland.
The project incorporated 70,000 tonnes of locally sourced materials and delivered a shared-use path providing safe access for pedestrians, cyclists and equestrian users. A sustainable drainage system, including three attenuation ponds, was introduced to manage stormwater and reduce flood risk, alongside landscaping that enhances biodiversity and integrates the structure into its rural setting.
Beyond engineering works, the project team supported local initiative including improvements to community spaces and a key school walking home route. The scheme has delivered a last legacy, demonstrating how civil engineering can improve safety, connectivity and the quality of life for local communities.
The Loch Katrine Peatland Restoration Project is a flagship example of civil engineering delivering environmental restoration in a highly sensitive setting within Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. Located in a critical drinking water catchment serving over 1.3 million people, the project required care in design and delivery.
Works focus on restoring degraded peatlands to enhance carbon sequestration, improve water quality and strengthen ecosystem resilience. Challenging terrain, characterised by steep slopes, deep peat and complex hydrology, required bespoke, low-impact engineering techniques. These included wave peat damming, zippering and hag reprofiling to reinstate natural water tables and stabilise erosion.
Logistical constraints were significant due to remote access, requiring specialist low ground pressure plant and all-terrain vehicles, alongside adaptative construction management to address weather, safety and operational challenges. Robust safety systems, environmental controls and emergency planning ensured risk was effectively managed throughout.
Operating within a Drinking Water Protection Zone and designated conservation areas, the project prioritised environmental protection through strict pollution controls, ecological collaboration and habitat-sensitive working practices. Restoration of over 15- hectares has shown positive ecological outcomes, including improved saturation and biodiversity recovery.
A circular economy approach maximised reuse of on-site materials, aligning with Peatland Code principles and supporting long-term carbon storage. Digital technologies, including GIS, GNSS and drone mapping, enhanced precision, monitoring and project management.
The Project demonstrates how civil engineering can deliver sustainable, data-driven solutions. These solutions protect vital infrastructure, restore natural systems and contribute to Scotland's climate ambitions. It sets a benchmark for future peatland resotration.
Kincardine XD130 is a landmark electricity transmission tower on the Firth of Forth, built in the early 1960s and essential to keeping power flowing across the estuary. When a survey identified marine-exposure-related defects in parts of it concrete foundations and access bridge, a carefully planned refurbishment programme was required into one of the most demanding settings in Scotland.
Completed in April 2026 at an outturn value of £1.94 million, the project delivered durable repairs int he intertidal zone, where safe access was governed by tidal windows and strict daylight working limits. Environmental protection was integral throughout, with specialist ecological oversight and measures implemented to protect sensitive habitats and comply with protected - species requirements beneath the access bridge.
Sustainability was embedded in the day-today delivery. A hybrid power system was used for site welfare, combining batter storage with a 60kVA generator to cut fuel use, noise and emissions. Waste performance was strong : 37.6 tonnes of material were removed during the deporting period, with 91% recycled, 7.2% recovered, and only 1.8% sent to landfill, achieving 98% diversion from landfill.
The team also delivered local social value by repairing and stitching structural cracks at a community bowling club in Linwood, leaving a positive legacy beyond the works themselves.
This project shows how modern specialist civil engineering can extend the life of vital infrastructure while placing safety, environmental stewardship and sustainable construction at the centre of delivery.
The Corstorphine Road project, part of Scottish Water's Improving Urban Waters (IUW) programme, delivered an upgrade to critical waste water infrastructure in Edinburgh's Murrayfield area. The scheme involved constructing a new storm overflow chamber with a screen which can capture items that are wrongly flushed down the toilet, down to 6mm. The project directly addresses pollution from wet wipes and plastics, improving the water quality and protecting The Water of Leith. This demonstrates a clear commitment to sustainability and preventing waste from entering the natural environment and enhancing long-term environmental resilience.
In terms of design and construction excellence, the project successfully delivered complex underground works beneath a major arterial route into Edinburgh, while maintaining access through carefully managed traffic control. The installation of new screens and spill chambers within tight constraints reflects strong technical capability, while safe traffic management and co-ordination demonstrate a robust safety culture and effective project management.
The project also delivered significant social value and community impact. Public engagement was prioritised, with a well-attended information event attracting over 100 local residents and businesses, allowing feedback to shape delivery and reduce disruption. The scheme protects homes and businesses from flooding while improving the quality of a key urban watercourse, delivering tangible benefits to the local community.
As part of a wider £500 million IUW programme focused on water quality, monitoring and targeted infrastructure improvements, the project demonstrates how modern engineering integrates innovation, environmental stewardship and community engagement, delivering outcomes to create a more sustainable and resilient urban enviroment.
The Falkirk Flight Lock Gate Replacement Project (locks 4-20) is a major programme of works to upgrade a key section of the Forth and Clyde canal between the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies, securing its future for the next generation. Delivered by Mackenzie Construction for Scottish Canals, the project replaced ageing lock gates, improved water management and protected a 250-year-old historic asset for continued use.
The project involved replacing eight sets of timer lock gates and new steel gates at Lock 16, working across a four-mile stretch of canal that attracts thousands of visitors each year. It was carried out over two main construction phases, supported by a separate programme at Lock 16, with works carefully planned to maintain water levels and minimise distruptions.
Low carbon construction techniques played a key role. by using a siphon system instead of diesel pumping, the team avoided significant fuel use, saving around 2,500 liters of diesel per week and cutting emissions throughout the programme.
Beyond engineering, the project made a direct difference to people's lives. The Falkirk Flight Community Fund support local organisations, helping improve community spaces, support vulnerable groups and create opportunities for local residents. A dedicated project with the NHS Forth Valley Neurorehabilitation team created an accessible outdoor space to support recovery and wellbeing.
By combining heritage protection, sustainable construction and strong community engagement, the project has transformed both the infrastructure and the communities around it, ensuring the canal remains a valued part of everyday life in central Scotland.
Delivered by Balfour Beatty, Dunfermline City Campus in a transformational education development bringing together Fife College and two secondary schools into one modern, connected learning environment. Designed to inspire future generations, the campus creates flexible spaces that link education, industry and the wider community, opening up new opportunities for learning and employment across Fife. This integration strengthens collaboration between students, educators and employers within a shared, future-focused environment.
As Scotland's first net-zero-ready tertiary education building, the campus sets a new benchmark for sustainable construction. It uses innovative techniques, including the UK's largest Hybrid + Structural solution and extensive off-site manufacturing to reduce both carbon emissions and construction time. This approach also cut waste significantly, removing over 10,000 carboard cartons from the supply chain and eliminating two tonnes of single-use packaging.
The project has already made a meaningful difference to people locally, delivering over 830 apprentice weeks and more than 200 graduate weeks, alongside 55 weeks of paid placements, Young people have also benefited from over 210 hours of STEM engagement across more than 20 schools, helping inspire future careers in engineering and construction.
Community impact has been central, with 250 volunteering hours and £21,000 in donations supporting local charities and community groups.
A lasting legacy is being created through a new 'Skill Street' training environment, ensuring the campus continues to support skills development long after completion.
By combining low-carbon innovation with a strong commitment to people and place, the project is transforming lives and creating long-term opportunity.
The East Glenlatterach Reservoir project is helping protect a vital source of drinking water for communities across Moray. As part of a major safety and resilience upgrade, the team discovered that manganese levels in the reservoir needed to be reduced to keep water quality high. What sounded like a simple task quickly become a major challenge.
Here are five intresting facts about the project:
To overcome the restrictions, Morrison Construction designed a completely self-sustaining, solar-powered trailer that could run the compressor units needed to lower manganese levels. It produces zero emissions, makes no noise, and removes any risk of fuel spills, a major win for the environment. This low-carbon innovation means the reservoir can be treated safely without disturbing the landscape or wildlife. It also provides a new model for how remote water sites across Scotland can be powered in the future.
Most importantly, the project helps ensure that thousands of people continue to receive clean, safe drinking water. Now and for generations to come.
Covanburn Contracts was appointed to transform the Govan Graving Docks site at Glasgow's River Clyde into the brand new Riverside Park, a new recreational space designed for leisure, events and festivals. Prior to May 2025 when works began, Govan Graving Docks had become a derelict site. Part of Glasgow's industrial history along the River Clyde, it had become redundant after the shipbuilding industry declined.
After 40 years in disrepair, it took our 12-person Covanburn team 10 months to complete the project. The wide-open space is populated with recycled granite setts from the original site, refurbished wooden bench seating from Glasgow City Council storage and repurposed mooring post as street furniture. The design is notable for its sharp precision landscaping.
Since its opening the park has been popular with local residents including families using the space for recreational activities, dog walkers and cyclists. It is also building up its events calendar with festival and markets scheduled to take place.
Transforming Govan Graving Docks from a derelict site into a practical recreational space means that Glasgow's modern day inhabitants can reclaim and important piece of the city's historical space and give it a new lease of life. The installations in the park pay tribute to Glasgow's industrial history while the design symbolises modernity. It is a merging of the past, present and future, and its wide spaces act as a blank canvas: the construction of Riverside Park is the foundation, but it is the people of Glasgow who will construct its new character.
The Provost Driver Court Sewer Rehabilitation and Ground Stabilisation Project in Renfrew addressed a critical and long standing issue in Scottish Water's sewer network. The problem stemmed from unstable Clyde alluvial soils and a high groundwater table. in 2020, up to 500 mm of settlement, and posed risks to infrastructure and nearby homes. The site's location within a public park and adjacent to residential properties added further complexity.
A collaborative effort between Scottish Water, George Leslie, COWI and specialist partners delivered a non-intrusive solution. Extensive site investigations and 18 months of monitoring informed a pioneering geotechnical approach. Controlled dewatering was used not just for construction but to induce settlement and consolidate weak soils, improving found stability. This was complemented by geopolymer injection, which strengthened soils and sealed water ingress without large-scale excavation.
Temporary works included a deep sheet-piled cofferdam installed using low-vibration techniques to minimise community disruption, supported by digital modelling and rehearsal to optimise design and sequencing. Permanent works involved replacing the failed sewer and installing durable infrastructure suited to the challenging conditions.
The project prioritised safety, sustainability and community engagement. Grid-powered construction significantly reduced carbon emissions by 75-85% compared to diesel generation, while material reuse and reduced excavation supported circular economy principles. Local impacts were minimised through careful planning and communication, eliminating disruptive tankering operations.
Ultimately, the project restored infrastructure resilience, safeguarded homes and public space and highlighted sustainable engineering in complex geotechnical environments.
Morrison Construction has developed and implemented and innovative Multi-Technology Critical Infrastructure Assessment Framework for Scottish Water, transforming how critical buried water and wastewater assets are inspected, assessed and manged.
Faced with the challenge of maintaining ageing strategic infrastructure with limited condition data, the project moved beyond traditional inspection methods by integrating multiple complementary technologies into a single, intelligence-led assessment approach. The framework combines advanced in-pipe inspection, acoustic monitoring, electromagnetic condition assessment, CCTV surveys, non-destructive testing, environmental investigations and thermal UAV imaging to provide a comprehensive understanding of asset condition while assets remain operational.
A key innovation was the integration of thermal drone surveys undertaken by UAV365, enabling rapid identification of potential leakage pathways and ground anomalies across extensive pipeline corridors.
The framework enables Scottish Water to identify defect before failure occurs, understand deterioration mechanisms, prioritise investment based on evidence and reduce uncertainty in asset management decision-making. By minimising the need for intrusive investigations and service interruptions, the approach improves operational efficiency while enhancing customer service and network resilience.
The programme represents a significant step change from reactive maintenance towards predictive, data-driven infrastructure management. It delivers measurable benefits through reduced risk, improved asset knowledge, targeted investment and enhanced sustainability outcomes.
This scalable and repeatable methodology provides a long-term foundation for managing Scotland's critical water infrastructure and demonstrates how innovation, collaboration and technology can deliver last value for clients, customers and communities.
The North Bridge is a 3 span Victorian bridge constructed by Sir William Arrol & Co in the late 1890s. It is Category A listed and positioned in a world heritage site. In June 2014 concrete spalled from the bridge deck. An intervention contract followed to encapsulate the bridge in netting. In 2017 City of Edinburgh Council engaged Balfour Beatty through the Scape Civil Engineering Framework and following an ECI phase entered into contract in June 2018 for the North Bridge Refurbishment.
Access Scaffold, concrete and steelwork repairs, protective coatings, and an access platform formed the primary scope. Key stakeholders were Network Rail, Lothian Busses, three of Edinburgh's top hotels, and local businesses. The main constraint was that bridge closures of this vital north-south city link would not be permitted.
Commencing on site in August 2024, SBE facilitated the works with the deployment of an innovative, in-house developed access system capable of carrying personnel to any location about the 4 stay cable clusters, allowing inspection works to take place in accordance with highways standards.
Shortly after access scaffold installation, it was identified that the bridge was in a considerable worse condition than anyone expected based on the available information. The quantity of repairs increased significantly as did the scope of works. Steel work repairs became replacements & strengthening, Concrete repairs became partial bridge deck demolition and the introduction of cathodic protection and structural health monitoring. Waterproofing, surfacing, masonry repairs, drainage, expansion joints were required. Approx. 2,000 components from the cast iron facade were carefully removed, repaired, and reinstated on a new hidden supporting web of steelwork.
On completion the bridge looks the same, which satisfies Historic Environment Scotland, but it is a very different structure than it was, reengineered for future generations to use and appericate.
The Tay Street "Super Sewer" project in Perth represents a transformative investment in sustainable infrastructure, delivered by Caledonian Water Alliance (CWA) on behalf of Scottish Water. Designed to support significant population and economic growth, the scheme increases wastewater capacity while reducing sewer flooding risk in low-laying areas along the River Tay, enhancing long-term climate resillence.
CWA delivered 550 meters of new large diameter sewer (2,2m) pipeline through a highly constrained urban environment, maintaining access to businesses and residents throughout construction. The project demonstrated engineering excellence and innovation through the use of reinforced steel composite pipework, significantly reducing material weight, transport, excavation and programme duration compared to traditional concrete solutions.
Digital and smart construction techniques, including advanced surveying, ground-penetrating radar and real-time utility mapping, ensured safe delivery and eliminated utility strikes. These approaches enhanced project management, safety performance and quality assurance, embedding a string safety culture across all activities.
Sustainability and circular economy principles were central to delivery. The project achieved substantial carbon savings through material efficiency and low-impact construction methods, while surplus timber was repurposed into new infrastructure, reducing waste and embedding resource reuse.
Beyond engineering, CWA prioritised community value, engaging stakeholders throughout minimising disruption, and delivering lasting local benefits including improved access routes, enhanced public spaces and biodivercity improvements.
Overall, the Perth Super Sewer exemplifies how innovative civil engineering can go beyond technical delivery to create resilient infrastructure, support sustainable growth, and leave a positive social and environmental legacy.
The New Islay Vessel Enabling Works, delivered for CMAL by George Leslie is a major marine infrastructure programme upgrading harbours at Kennacraig, Port Askaig and Colonsay to accommodate a new generation of larger, hybrid ferries. The project responded to the need for enhanced berthing, dredging, linkspan refurbishment, and shore power integration to improve capacity, resilience and support decarbonisation goals.
Delivered across remote and operational ferry terminals, the works required complex sequencing to maintain uninterrupted lifeline ferry services. At locations such as Kennacraig, phased construction ensure continuous berth availability, requiring precise coordination between client, designer and contractor.
Innovation underpinned delivery that included advanced sediment modelling to minimise environmental impact and bespoke engineering solutions such as pile-top drilling through hard rock using floating plant. Digital tools, including BIM and 3D modelling, supported design coordination, risk management and safe integration with liver operations,
The project generated strong social value by safeguarding essential ferry links, supporting economic activity, tourism and community wellbeing across island communities. Local investment, employment and community engagement initiatives further strengthened its impact.
A robust safety culture and comprehensive environmental management ensured works were completed without harm to protected habitats. Sustainable practices included reuse of materials, minimisation of waste and preparing infrastructure for low-emission vessels.
Despite challenging weather, logistics and operational constraints, the project was delivered on programme, including rapid recovery efforts following storm damage at Kennacraig. Recognised by the Institution of Civil Engineers, the project exemplifies collaborative, innovative and sustainable civil engineering in complex island environment.
Arbroath - A Place for Everyone is a transformational active travel and public realm scheme, redefining how people move through the town. Delivered for Angus Council, the project is one the first in Scotland to redesign a dual carriageway environment to priorities people, reallocating road space along the A92 corridor to create safer, greener and more inclusive routes for walking, wheeling and cycling.
Through the delivery of approximately 1.5km of dedicated active travel infrastructure, the scheme reconnected key destinations including the harbour, West Links, transport hubs, the High Street and Arbroath Abbey. By removing two traffic lanes that previously divided the town, the project overcame decades of severance and improved accessibilty.
The project delivered measurable impact, with pedestrian usage increasing from around 200-300 people per day to over 700, alongside a significant rise in cycling activity. Delivered 100% on time and on budget, the scheme also achieved approximately £1.4m of value engineering savings.
Sustainability and social value have been central throughout. The scheme supports reduced carbon emissions, enhances public spaces and achieved 100% waste diversion from landfill. The project team successfully engaged with the vast majority across the region, as part of the commitment made to visit every primary school in Angus. The project supported and raised awareness of roadworker abuse through training and engagement with stakeholders to understand the challenges and social triggers.
By prioritising people over vehicles, the scheme has created a safer, healthier and more vibrant town centre, establishing a benchmark for future infrastructure projects across Scotland.
The winning projects revealed at the Gala Lunch held on Friday 25th September 2026 at the EICC, Edinburgh, hosted by radio and TV presenter, Arlene Stuart, in the company of 250 guests, were:
PROJECT OF THE YEAR AND RESILIENCE AWARD 2025; Hawick Flood Protection Scheme
Lead organisations: CPE Consultancy, McLaughlin & Harvey & Jacobs
TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT OF THE YEAR; Destiny Bridge and the New Kingsway
Lead Organisations: BAM UK & Ireland, Perth & Kinross Council, Sweco UK Limited, Arup & Fairhurst
REGENERATION AWARD; Govan - Partick Bridge
Lead Organisations: Farrans, Glasgow City Council, Jacobs UK Limited & Murform Ltd
MARINE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT AWARD; Leith Outer Berth
Lead Organisations: GRAHAM Civil Engineering, Forth Ports, HBPW Consulting Engineers
HERITAGE INFRASTRUCTURE AWARD; Connel Bridge New Walkways
Lead Organisations: Spencer Bridge Engineering, BEAR Scotland & Transport Scotland
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD; Craigmaddie Reservoir
Lead Organisations: George Leslie Ltd & Scottish Water
BEST PROJECT UNDER £2M AWARD; North Berwick Harbour Wall Reconstruction
Lead Organisations; Southbay Civil Engineering Ltd, East Lothian Council, Royal Haskoning DHV
GEOTECHNICAL AWARD; Lost Shore Inland Surf Resort
Lead Organisations: W H Malcolm Ltd & Ramage Young Design Ltd
BUILDING AWARD; Edinburgh Future’s Institute
Lead Organisations: Will Rudd, Balfour Beatty, University of Edinburgh, Bennetts Associates, Atkins Realis, Thomson Bethune, Consarc & Ironside Farrar
TEMPORARY WORKS AWARD; Jenners Building
Lead Organisations: BH Civil Engineering & Cundall
Congratulations to all the teams involved in the winning projects! It was particularly welcome to see so many CECA member companies as lead contractors on the winning projects and I know that many more member companies played a role in the supply chain too.
Best Project Under £2M
St Andrews Landslip Remediation
Morrison Construction – Scottish Water – Geo-Rope – Allen Gordon LLP
Resilience Award
Caol and Lochyside Flood Protection Scheme
RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd – The Highland Council – Stantec – JBA Consulting
Refurbishment Award
Camps Viaduct Underbridge Refurbishment
Story Contracting – Network Rail – MHB Consultants
Innovation Award
Crinan Canal Lock Gate 15 Replacement
Mackenzie Construction – Scottish Canals – MHB Design
Geotechnical Award
Blindwells
I&H Brown Ltd – Hargreaves Land Services – Waterman Group
Marine Award
Lochmaddy Pier Upgrade
George Leslie – Comhairle nan Eilean Siar – Wallace Stone – CMAL
Best Infrastructure Project
A939 Gairnshiel Jubilee Bridge
Wills Bros Civil Engineering – Aberdeenshire Council – Arcadis – Moxon Architects
Best Overall Project 2024
Ullapool Shore Street and Inner Harbour Improvements
RJ McLeod (Contractors) Ltd – Ullapool Harbour Trust – Transport Scotland
– Wallace Stone – Inland & Coastal Marina Systems
Congratulations to all the teams involved in the winning projects! It was particularly welcome to see so many CECA member companies as lead contractors on the winning projects and many more member companies played a role in the supply chain too. The Scottish Civil Engineering Awards are the premier showcase for recognising civil engineering excellence in Scotland. Videos of all winning projects can be viewed below.
