Sheffield Highway Maintenance

United Kingdom

The Streets Ahead contract is one of the UK’s most ambitious and successful long-term highway transformation initiatives. Delivered through a 25-year partnership between Sheffield City Council and the Amey Hallam Highways Consortium, the project has reshaped a network once among the worst nationally, known locally as "Pothole City" into one that now ranks among the best-performing urban networks in England.

This entry demonstrates how a mature, evolving and highly collaborative partnership has delivered outstanding operational performance, exceptional value for money and long-term resilience for Sheffield. Over £400m has been invested during the Core Investment Period, enabling 83% of the network to be resurfaced, driving substantial improvements in network condition, public satisfaction and safety. Sheffield now ranks 6th nationally and 1st among its peer cities in the National Highways and Transport survey. Reaching the halfway point of the contract created an opportunity for all partners to undertake a comprehensive contract refresh. Completed in 2025, this strengthened collaboration, delivered savings, enhanced flexibility and aligned service delivery with evolving local priorities including climate resilience, innovation and social value. The refreshed partnership has introduced a modernised, technology-enabled approach that supports new materials, Integrated Transport System upgrades, electric vehicle integration, proactive maintenance and a test and change culture. These innovations have reduced carbon, improved resident experience and extended asset life while supporting long-term financial sustainability. With a strong track record of social value creation, community engagement, improved user experience and demonstrable environmental benefits, Streets Ahead represents an exemplar of operational excellence and long-term partnership working.