Integration of Circular Economy Approaches into a Major Infrastructure Project Case Study - National Highways’ A303 Circular Economy Pathfinder Project

Whilst the concept of the circular economy is not new, experience of and guidance for, its practical application continues to evolve. There are currently few case studies for the application of circular economy approaches to the design and delivery of major infrastructure projects. This paper summarises experience, key activities and achievements in the implementation of circular economy approaches through the Development Phase of the A303 Amesbury to Berwick Down (Stonehenge) road scheme, a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. The A303 Stonehenge scheme is the one of the first complex infrastructure projects in the UK to focus on the integration of circular economy approaches from the Preliminary Design stage. This paper summarises activities undertaken as a National Highways ‘Circular Economy Pathfinder Project’ between 2017 and 2021, during the Preliminary Design through to Construction Preparation stages of the scheme. The Pathfinder Project sought to identify stakeholders and establish mechanisms to integrate consideration and application of circular economy approaches into the scheme’s current Development and future Construction Phases. The work described is not specific to the A303 Stonehenge scheme, the general approach developed, and opportunities identified will influence this scheme and also inform other National Highways’ road schemes. The paper summarises experience and achievements to date, the approach is expected to continue to be developed through future road schemes. The paper describes the application of circular economy approaches by reference to National Highways’ Major Project Cycle and applicable planning requirements, however, the general approach and outcomes achieved are broadly similar to, and therefore transferrable to other major infrastructure projects. This paper is expected to be of interest to those interested in the practicalities of the transition to the circular economy.