4th April 2025

Van Elle’s Key Contributions to the National Emergency Area Retrofit Programme

We are proud to share a full recap of our involvement in the National Emergency Area Retrofit (NEAR) programme, a vital highways safety improvement initiative being delivered by SMP Alliance for National Highways.

NEAR is a nationally significant project aimed at enhancing safety on major roadways.

Over the past 13 months, Van Elle has played a crucial role in several schemes across the M1, M25, and M4, working alongside three SMP Alliance on-site assembly partners across the North, Midlands, and South.

Our teams have provided essential foundation and earthwork solutions that have supported the stability and construction of new emergency areas and additional signage.

Our Key Achievements Include:

  • Designed, manufactured, and installed 180No. helical and GRIP piles, along with 18No. grillages for MS3 and MS4 gantry bases.
  • Completed all helical, GRIP, and grillage manufacturing in-house at our Highways sector-approved fabrication facilities.
  • Installed a 130m king post wall, requiring 65No. 900mm diameter piles.
  • Designed and installed 6,150m of soil nails and 1,000m² of MacMat-R Erosion Control Netting for slope stability.
  • Installed 9No. MIDAS piles and 24No. PTZ Plunge piles.

This achievement is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our on-site teams, design engineers, office staff, and manufacturing units.

The successful completion of these works underscores Van Elle’s commitment to delivering high-quality, safety-focused infrastructure solutions.

A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to this significant milestones.