Julie Cadwallader, Author at PJA

Reviving the flow of a century-old drainage system

Horton Park, a beloved 150-year-old green space in the heart of Bradford, is widely enjoyed by the local community. However, years of misconnections and the challenges associated with maintaining the surrounding infrastructure have led to a gradual decline in the condition of the drainage features in the park. To address this, the water experts at PJA are leading the Heart of Horton Hydrology Study, aiming to build long-term resilience for the park’s future.

A cherished Grade II listed outside space, Horton Park was opened in May 1878 on land bought by Bradford Council to support the growing Victorian city. A peaceful oasis within the busy urban environment of Bradford, the large leafy park boasts paths through beautiful gardens, sensory rich play areas, and a tranquil duck pond. It’s an abundant mix of natural displays and a sanctuary for wildlife offering a welcome reprieve from the hustle and bustle of town life with opportunities for socialising and exercising for the local community.

The drainage system, which has been in place in the park for nearly 150 years, has recently shown signs that it is no longer working as expected resulting in ponds declining condition, impacting on the ecology of the area. The Horton Hydrology Study, being undertaken by PJA’s water experts, will complete a robust hydrological analysis to investigate potential misconnections and other issues in the existing drainage system. With consideration of local stakeholder perspectives, PJA will then create sustainable solutions to resolve the issues and mitigate against future climate change.

PJA’s water expert, Phoebe Ryding explains: “This park is a special place for so many people, an oasis in the hustle and bustle of Bradford that’s essential for the wellbeing of the local community.

The historical nature of the park is central to its appeal, but the Victorian drainage systems were never built to withstand today’s climate and have been forgotten over time.

PJA’s robust hydrological analysis and sustainable design solutions will protect against flooding, improve water quality, and celebrate the park’s heritage.

We’ll be collaborating with the community and stakeholders to considerately revive the flow of a century-old drainage system to future proof this place for people.”

Image courtesy of University of Bradford

For more information, contact [email protected]

Find out more about our services here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

PJA People: Mark Teague

Our wonderful team are our greatest asset. Not only experts in transport, engineering and placemaking but also committed to delivering better places for people through high-level-service client experiences.

We’re very proud to continue to celebrate the faces behind the fast-growing international consultancy that we are today in our monthly feature ‘PJA People’.

Next up in our series is Associate, Mark Teague, based in our Birmingham office:

Tell us what you do at PJA

Help deliver infrastructure schemes mainly relating to developments. I generally like the challenge of unpicking sites and remoulding them into a different form or use. Also, I assist others with there career paths, mentoring or just being a ‘sounding board’.

What’s your career path so far?

I’ve been in the industry for 40 years (this year). Started my career on the M5 widening working for Hereford & Worcester County Council. My ‘base’ background is Highway Engineering; however, I’ve transferred these skills and worked on many Civil Engineering aspects except for Tunnelling and Nuclear Power. I’ve been involved in all aspects of project delivery from concept, planning, through the design process, procurement, construction, maintenance, and demolition. So, you could say I’ve become an all-rounder.

What do you enjoy when you’re not working?

I like to travel to far off exotic places if I can and I love going to Polynesia. I have recently returned from a cycle trip around Holland; however, I stress that I am no MAMIL. Generally I love the outdoors, especially down by the coast or in the mountains. I try to keep fit as best as I can – not necessarily for health reasons, although this is a benefit, but so I can still do what I want to do.

Are you a dog or cat person?

Not fond of cats, however I have inherited one.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I like Terry Pratchett novels, and my favourite is Mort. I enjoy all aspects of music but will generally listen to Acid Jazz.

Claim to fame?

My family won an Irish mansion in a raffle!

Mark Teague, Associate

Mark is an Associate with over 37 years’ experience within the construction industry, mainly dealing with infrastructure projects for industrial, residential and other mixed-use developments for both public and private clients. Has undertaken all aspects of works from concept, planning, design, procurement and construction, therefore has a good understanding of what is involved and able to advise clients accordingly.

Due to Mark’s extensive experience and knowledge, he is able to provide a holistic approach when dealing with multi-disciplined schemes and is able to understand the constraints or benefits of other disciplines.

Get in touch with Mark: [email protected]

Find out more about our services here

Read more in our PJA People series here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

Celebrating Yorkshire Day – and our first three months in Leeds!

Today is Yorkshire Day, and it feels like the perfect moment to reflect on the exciting first few months of PJA’s newest office, right in the heart of Leeds.

In August, we’ll mark just our third month in our new space on The Headrow in Leeds city centre, and it’s already been a busy and rewarding start. Since opening our doors, the Leeds team has been involved in over thirty projects, including a new M&S foodstore in Sheffield, several new care home sites across the UK, and major residential schemes in Leeds city centre and Barnsley.

Our new team is growing too: this month we welcome Alex McEwan from Birmingham City Council, joining James Whitton (Associate) and Olivia Bruno (Senior Engineer) as we build our local expertise.

Building on PJA’s track record in Yorkshire, the Leeds office is already contributing to the region’s future:

We’re currently supporting SYMCA in preparing their new active travel design guide.

As the sole supplier on the WYCA active travel framework, we’re helping shape walking and cycling improvements across West Yorkshire.

And earlier this year, we took part in UKREiiF and many of its fringe events, connecting with fellow professionals and championing sustainable and inclusive design.

Talking about the success so far, Richard Ellam, Director of our Leeds office said: “We have had a fantastic start in Leeds, already with our own office space in the heart of the city centre and a team of four in just three months. Our reputation as market leaders in active travel and placemaking planning precedes us, and we have been delighted by the response from clients, partners, and the transport planning community to our arrival.”

Yorkshire Day is all about celebrating what makes this region special, and for us, that includes being part of its growth, communities and ambitions. Here’s to many more months (and years!) of making a difference across Yorkshire and beyond.

Happy Yorkshire Day from all of us at PJA!

Find out more about our services here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

Accredited Healthy Streets Practitioner and Designer – reflections from a civil engineer

Following his recent accreditation as a Healthy Streets Practitioner and Designer, Sam Williams, Director in our Melbourne office, shares his reflections on the role of civil engineers in creating healthier, more inclusive, and community-focused street environments:

This is more than another badge—it’s a meaningful step in rethinking how civil engineers contribute to placemaking and public health.

The accreditation builds on PJA’s commitment to create street environments that support healthier, more equitable and connected communities. I feel genuinely privileged to work alongside colleagues in Australia, and the UK, who are thought leaders in equitable access, safer speeds, and active travel—and challenge the status quo on every project.

This journey has been shaped by some excellent discussions—most recently at the Placemaking Summit 2025 in Melbourne. One comment that stuck with me was someone saying, “I’m not a placemaker.” But the truth is: everyone is. Whether you realise it or not, your work, your decisions, even your offhand comments all shape a place.

It’s often those who don’t see themselves as placemakers who can have the biggest impact—sometimes unintentionally. A passing remark like “the community wouldn’t accept that”—without speaking to the community. The specific location of signs reducing footpath widths during detailed design. Or opting for a standard guardrail outside a school, without considering the message that sends to children and carers.

Thanks to Lucy Saunders FFPH for leading a rigorous and thought-provoking course, and for continuing to push us all to consider how streets can better support human health and experience.

Looking forward to applying this learning in the streets we design and the conversations we shape.

Find out more about our services here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

Sam Williams, Director

Sam heads up the Melbourne office of PJA and has over 14 years’ experience in civil engineering design consultancies.

He has worked on a wide range of projects including: development infrastructure, public realm improvements, national cycle routes and urban regeneration.

Sam brings a genuine passion for early engineering engagement at concept stage to ensure that a creative and credible design can be delivered.

Get in touch with Sam: [email protected]

PJA People: Holly Mullen

We’re very proud to continue to celebrate the faces behind the fast-growing international consultancy that we are today in our monthly feature ‘PJA People’.

Next up in our series is Principal Consultant, Holly Mullen, based in our Bristol office:

Tell us what you do at PJA

I’m a Principal Consultant / Engineer based in Bristol (but I actually live in Abergavenny). Active Travel is my thing, in a nutshell!

What’s your career path so far?

My first job after graduating in civil engineering was working on the M1 drainage… I had to commute on the M1 to get there – it was awful! A few years later after working mostly in transport I did a part-time masters in Sustainable Development and started working for Sustrans, beginning on my walking and cycling path!

What do you enjoy when you’re not working?

My boys (aged 2 and 4) keep me very busy when I’m not working. We love exploring beautiful Wales, cycling around on our new electric bike, dragging the kids up hills, playing in rivers etc. I try to fit in yoga when possible – I used to teach a few classes before having kids so would like to get back in to that.

Are you a dog or cat person?

Both! We had one of each for a while, but Peggy the cat is sadly no longer here. They were almost best friends.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I just finished reading All My Mothers and Technofeudalism. Currently listening to Kokoroko on the We Out Here 2025 Festival Playlist.

Claim to fame?

I almost became an aerial artist and ran away with the circus!

Holly Mullen, Principal Consultant

Holly is Principal Consultant at PJA with 13 years’ experience in design and consultancy. She is an experienced engineer with skills predominantly in the design and delivery of walking and cycling infrastructure schemes from feasibility to construction.

Get in touch with Holly: [email protected]

Find out more about our services here

Read more in our PJA People series here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

International Women in Engineering Day: The fall in women engineers

As we mark International Women in Engineering Day (INWED), the spotlight is once again on gender diversity in the engineering profession. While new data shows that the overall proportion of women in engineering and technology roles has risen to 16.9% in 2024, a closer look reveals a more complex story.

Despite progress in attracting younger women into the industry, a sharp drop in mid-career female engineers in 2023 is still fuelling concern. Compared to 2022, there were around 22,000 more women aged 16–34 working in engineering and technology roles, but 66,000 fewer women aged 35–64. This suggests a growing trend: while more women are entering the profession, many are not staying.

Shirel Stedman, Non-Executive Director at PJA, reflected on these figures and what they say about the industry’s ability to retain female talent:

We’ve long struggled with gender diversity in engineering, and while it’s positive to see more young women entering the field, the numbers leaving in mid-career are deeply concerning.

It highlights longstanding issues that haven’t been adequately addressed. Many women are juggling family life with demanding roles, and too often they face limited opportunities for progression into leadership.

We can’t underestimate the impact of workplace culture either. If organisations don’t create an environment where women feel they can thrive long-term, they will continue to lose valuable experience and insight.

And this isn’t just about equality – it’s about performance. Companies that embrace gender diversity see better outcomes. In the built environment sector especially, diverse perspectives lead to more innovative, practical, and effective solutions.

Data from the Engineering Council shows that women engineers typically leave the profession at around age 43, while their male counterparts continue until nearly 60. This gap underlines the urgent need to design careers that support women beyond early entry.

At PJA, we’re determined to be part of the solution. When we launched our Environment service area, we knew it was important to build it on strong values and expertise. That is why we asked Shirel to work closely with our diverse leadership team, not just for her deep technical knowledge, but for her unwavering dedication to inclusion and her passion for mentoring the next generation of professionals. Through this new offering, not only are we expanding our technical capability, but we’re also strengthening a business culture where mentorship, flexible working, and targeted development opportunities support career longevity and leadership for women in engineering.

Reversing the trend of women leaving engineering will require systemic change. At PJA, we believe that starts with leadership that reflects the values we want to see across the industry.

Find out more about our services here

Sign up for more news from PJA here

Shirel Stedman, Non-Executive Director

Shirel serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director and is a distinguished Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineering. She is also a Chartered Member of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management. With a career rooted in civil engineering within the infrastructure sector, Shirel is a passionate advocate for environmental enhancement, promoting Net Zero initiatives, and advancing Biodiversity Net Gain solutions.

Shirel chaired the Defra committee, the Regional Flood Coast Committee of the River Severn and Wye, and served as an elected committee member for 14 years. Additionally, she was appointed as a Board Member on the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) board.

Get in touch with Shirel: [email protected]

PJA secures position on Transport for Greater Manchester’s Framework

PJA announces successful appointment to Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) Transport Professional Services Framework 2025, having secured a place on Lot 10: Design & Engineering Services – Streets for All.

This strategic framework will support the delivery of Greater Manchester’s ambitious transport and placemaking plans over the coming years, including major infrastructure developments and the continued evolution of sustainable travel networks.

Chris Sibthorpe, Director of PJA’s Manchester office, commented:

“With new funding for Metrolink extensions, a pledge for an all-electric bus fleet by 2030, early work on a Liverpool–Manchester rail line, and expanded active travel infrastructure, Greater Manchester is at the forefront of developing sustainable transport options that will bring economic, health and environmental benefits to residents, businesses and visitors.

This ambitious growth agenda aligns perfectly with PJA’s vision to create better places through great design, and we look forward to playing our part in it, focusing on transformational placemaking and transport-led projects as part of the Transport Professional Services Framework.”

This appointment reflects PJA’s proven expertise in delivering people-focused design and engineering solutions that support sustainable mobility and inclusive growth. We look forward to collaborating with TfGM and partners across the region to help shape a more connected, vibrant and resilient Greater Manchester.

Find out more about our services here or get in touch: [email protected]

Celebrating five years of success: our Manchester office turns five!

This month marks a significant milestone for our team: the fifth anniversary of our Manchester office! What began as a bold step into one of the UK’s most vibrant cities to better support our local clients, has grown into a thriving hub of innovation and collaboration.

A look back

When we opened our doors in Manchester five years ago, we had a clear vision: to take PJA’s reputation for creativity and critical thinking to new clients in the north and to be an active participant in the Levelling Up agenda tapping into the city’s dynamic talent pool. From a modest team of passionate pioneers, we’ve grown into a diverse and dynamic office that plays a key role in our company’s success.

Highlights over the years

Team growth: From just a handful of employees to a bustling office filled with talent across departments, our Manchester team has more than tripled in size whilst retaining an intimate and collaborative work environment.

Client impact: We’ve delivered standout-built environment projects for private and public sector clients, earning trust and building long-term partnerships from community interest groups through to combined authorities and national government.

Community engagement: Whether it’s volunteering, mentoring, or supporting local events, our Manchester team has made giving back a priority.

Innovation & culture: The office has become a hub for creative thinking and collaboration, with a culture that reflects the spirit of the city – bold, inclusive, and forward-thinking.

Looking ahead

As we celebrate this milestone, we’re also looking to the future. With exciting projects on the horizon, continued investment in our people, and a commitment to innovation, the next five years promise to be even more impactful.

To everyone who has been part of this journey, thank you. Here’s to the past five years, and to many more to come!

Find out more about our services here or get in touch: [email protected]

Get in touch

Chris Sibthorpe Email 0161 553 1521

World Environment Day 2025: Longbridge – a green legacy grown from industrial roots

This World Environment Day, Longbridge stands as a powerful symbol of regeneration – not just of land and economy, but of nature itself. Once home to the largest car factory in Europe, the West Longbridge site has undergone a remarkable transformation from industrial powerhouse to a green urban haven, setting a new benchmark for sustainable regeneration.

The site, formerly occupied by the MG Rover ‘West Works’, lay dormant for years following the factory’s closure in 2005, a loss that left deep economic and emotional scars across the West Midlands. But today, thanks to the vision of St. Modwen and the expertise of collaborators like PJA, Longbridge is being reimagined as a vibrant, sustainable mixed-use community, one where biodiversity, water, and wellbeing are placed at the heart of urban development.

Central to this transformation is the re-naturalisation of the River Rea. Previously hidden beneath concrete, a one-mile stretch of this important waterway has been uncovered and revitalised for the first time in nearly a century, creating a lush green corridor that supports wildlife and connects communities.

The formerly culverted section not only restores the river’s ecological function but repositions water as a vital asset in modern placemaking. This project carefully restored the natural process of the river system, turning the River Rea and the Callow Brook into a beautiful and vibrant green corridor that connects communities, provides habitats for wildlife such as water voles and otters, improves water quality, increases biodiversity, and alleviates flooding for Longbridge Town Centre.

This regenerated watercourse is more than an ecological asset – it’s a social and environmental triumph. Lined with new cycle paths and walkways, the river now connects Rubery with Longbridge Town Centre, offering a seamless green link that promotes active travel and enhances access to public transport. These enhancements encourage walking and cycling, improving both physical and mental health for residents and visitors alike.

Surrounding the river, a riverside park has also taken shape, complete with play areas, outdoor gym equipment, natural trails, and even a public orchard. It’s a deliberate move to create a space that promotes community, wellbeing, and engagement with the natural world. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) have also been integrated throughout the residential areas, supporting flood resilience while enhancing biodiversity through wetland habitats and permanent ponds.

In many ways, the environmental rebirth of Longbridge mirrors a broader shift in how we view post-industrial land. No longer seen as derelict or contaminated liabilities, brownfield sites like West Longbridge are being reimagined as ecological and social opportunities. The accolades Longbridge has received, including winning both Regeneration Project of the Year and Sustainability Award at the Insider West Midlands Property Awards and highly commended at the Flood & Coast Awards 2025, speak to its significance as a national ideal of sustainable redevelopment.

As we celebrate World Environment Day 2025, Longbridge reminds us that progress is not always about starting fresh. Sometimes, the most impactful environmental change comes from healing the land beneath our feet, restoring rivers, revitalising communities, and reimagining what’s possible in the spaces we once thought lost. Longbridge has not just been rebuilt, it’s been reborn, greener and more resilient than ever.

Watch the video below to see the transformation in action and how the River Rea restoration has brought Longbridge back to life:

Find out more about us here or get in touch: [email protected]

Find out more

For more information please contact:

Phoebe Ryding Email 0121 289 9236

PJA People: George Richards

We’re very proud to continue to celebrate the faces behind the fast-growing international consultancy that we are today in our monthly feature ‘PJA People’.

Next up in our series is Graduate Geo-Environmental Engineer, George Richards, based in our Bristol office:

Tell us what you do at PJA

I am a graduate Geo-Environmental Engineer working within the Ground Engineering and Contaminated Land team. My office work is varied and partly comprises writing Phase 1 Geo-environmental desk studies and Phase 2 interpretive reports. My site work has mainly been based on Ironbridge Phase 2b land reclamation supervision and water monitoring at Coed Darcy.

What’s your career path so far?

I completed my Msc in Applied Environmental Geology in 2023 which included a 6-month placement with a ground investigation contractor working as a ground engineer, this later became my first professional role. Ground engineer duties included the supervision of Phase 2 Site Investigations, so there was a substantial amount of nationwide travel! I joined the PJA Bristol office in June 2024 and the last year has flown by!

What do you enjoy when you’re not working?

I am a keen cricketer playing in my team’s 1st XI and the season is now in full swing – I couldn’t think of a better way to spend the summer. I also love football and have a season ticket for Bristol City, so that’s my winters sorted!

Are you a dog or cat person?

Definitely a dog person, although I have nothing against cats. I have a blue Staffordshire Bull Terrier called Sapphire.

What are you currently reading or listening to?

I have never really been much of a reader although recently I have been getting into crime thrillers and particularly enjoying the Alex Cross collection by James Patterson. I have a fairly eclectic taste in music. I suppose if I had to choose a genre it would probably be rock. I am going to see Stereophonics in July which I can’t wait for, however, I probably would have preferred Oasis tickets…

Claim to fame?

I don’t really have one yet. When I was younger, I played for Bristol City Academy as a goalkeeper which was the dream – unfortunately I did not quite make the cut.

George Richards, Graduate Geo-Environmental Engineer

George joined the PJA Graduate Development Programme in 2024 after graduating from Cardiff University with a MSc in Applied Environmental Geology. He has 1 year experience as a site engineer, managing phase 2 site investigations. George is based in our Bristol office with interests in the geotechnical and geo-environmental sectors.

As part of the PJA Graduate Development Programme, George is assisting in writing desk studies, phase 2 reports and continuing to develop his site experience.

Get in touch with George: [email protected]

Find out more about our services here

Read more in our PJA People series here

Sign up for more news from PJA here