Introduction

Cappagh Browne has completed its first 2026 Stand Down programme across Hampshire, Kent and Sussex, bringing teams together to reinforce standards, strengthen accountability and set clear priorities for the year ahead.

The Stand Downs provided structured time away from day-to-day operations to reflect on performance, share learning and ensure consistent expectations across the business as we continue our AMP8 journey.

Setting the Direction for 2026

The Stand Downs created a clear line of sight from performance to action. Safety, operational delivery and commercial outcomes were addressed head-on, ensuring lessons from 2025 are embedded and expectations for the year ahead are fully understood.

With AMP8 firmly underway, the focus now shifts to delivery at scale. The 2026 strategy sets out £2.6m of targeted investment in fleet, plant and digital systems, alongside continued growth across civils and environmental services. Together, these priorities position Cappagh Browne to strengthen capability, increase efficiency and deliver consistently high standards across every region.

Setting the Standard on Site

A strong culture of accountability and pride in our work underpinned every session. The launch of the Minimum Standards Operatives Handbook, updates on SHEQ initiatives and certification commitments reinforced a simple principle: standards must be understood, applied and upheld consistently.

Key focus areas included safe systems of work, Before You Dig procedures, utility detection best practice, waste classification and environmental compliance, Streetworks permit management and accurate reporting through digital platforms.

The message was clear, quality, safety and compliance go hand in hand with operational performance.

Operational Control and Asset Investment

Plant and Transport updates addressed fleet management, vehicle compliance, damage reduction and accountability. Investment in new grabs, plant renewal, retrofit safety technology and low-emission vehicles was highlighted as part of the wider £2.6m asset investment programme.

Digital improvements including BigChange implementation, GIS property-level mapping, online inductions and structured operational reporting were reinforced as critical enablers of visibility, efficiency and performance.

Driving Performance, Quality and Customer Outcomes

Performance remains central to how we deliver, from operational output and compliance to customer satisfaction and reinstatement quality. Strong CSAT results, proactive communication and effective complaints handling demonstrate the link between behaviour on site and the experience we create for customers and communities.

Streetworks performance, permit management and reinstatement standards under SROH requirements continue to shape how we measure success. The focus is clear: consistent, high-quality delivery built on strong fundamentals, supporting safety, commercial performance and long-term reputation.

One Approach Across Three Regions

By delivering the programme across Hampshire, Kent and Sussex, Cappagh Browne ensured consistent messaging, shared learning and clear expectations across all teams.

The 2026 Stand Down series went beyond reflection, reinforcing what good looks like and ensuring every team understands their role in delivering safe, compliant and high-quality outcomes.

As we progress through AMP8, we move forward with clarity, confidence and a shared commitment to continuous improvement across the South.