Author: Paragon

  • Disability Confident Level 2

    Disability Confident Level 2

    Paragon Traffic Management is proud to have achieved Disability Confident Level 2 Employer status.

    As a people-led temporary traffic management company, this is an important milestone for us. It reflects the steps we are taking to build a more inclusive, supportive and accessible workplace, while strengthening the social value we deliver across the sectors and communities we work in.

    For Paragon, this is about more than a badge. It is about making sure our people feel supported, understood and able to thrive.

    What Disability Confident Level 2 Means

    The Disability Confident scheme helps employers improve how they recruit, support and develop disabled people in the workplace.

    Achieving Disability Confident Level 2 shows that Paragon has taken practical steps to remove barriers, improve accessibility and create fairer opportunities for disabled applicants and employees.

    A People-Led Approach

    Being a people-led business means putting people first in the way we work every day.

    At Paragon, that means creating a workplace where individuals feel listened to, valued and supported with the adjustments they need to do their best work. Through employee surveys, site visits and regular engagement, we are continuing to strengthen a culture where people feel they belong and can grow with confidence.

    What We Have Put in Place

    To achieve Disability Confident Level 2, we have introduced a number of meaningful changes across recruitment and employee support.

    These include:

    • guaranteed interviews for disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria
    • our DEI statement included on every job advert
    • asking candidates upfront if they need adjustments during the interview process
    • working with the Job Centre to promote vacancies and support mock interviews
    • improved wellbeing support through 24/7 GP access, an Employee Assistance Programme and a wellbeing platform

    Together, these changes help make Paragon a more inclusive and accessible place to work.

    Why Inclusivity Matters in Traffic Management

    Inclusivity and accessibility are especially important in traffic management and infrastructure because the work we do affects everyone โ€” road users, pedestrians and local communities.

    A more diverse workforce helps us plan safer, clearer and more accessible traffic management solutions. It also strengthens decision-making by bringing different perspectives into the way we work.

    There is also a clear industry need. Social value in traffic management and infrastructure is becoming increasingly important in tenders, with clients looking for genuine commitments to inclusion, accessibility and responsible business practice.

    Benefits for Employees and Clients

    For our employees, achieving Disability Confident Level 2 helps create a workplace where people feel supported, included and confident in asking for what they need.

    For our clients, it demonstrates that Paragon takes inclusion, accessibility and social value seriously. It shows we are committed to doing business in a responsible, people-focused way.

    What Comes Next

    We are proud of the progress we have made, but we know there is more work to do.

    Our focus now is on embedding and strengthening everything we have put in place at Level 2, making sure our commitments are consistent across the business and part of how we operate every day. Level 3 is a long-term goal, but right now our priority is continuing to build on strong foundations.

    Building a More Inclusive Future

    Achieving Disability Confident Level 2 is an important step for Paragon Traffic Management.

    It reflects our commitment to supporting our people, improving accessibility and delivering meaningful social value across the traffic management and infrastructure sectors.

    At Paragon, inclusion is not a tick-box exercise. It is part of building a stronger business, a stronger team and better outcomes for the communities we serve.

    SafetyByChoiceNotByChance

  • RIN London

    RIN London

    Last week we had the opportunity to exhibit at RIN London, one of the rail industryโ€™s key networking events that brings together contractors, suppliers and infrastructure specialists from across the sector.

    Representing Paragon at the event were Tony Wilson and Matt Hardy, who spent the day speaking with professionals across the rail and infrastructure industry about the role traffic management plays in helping projects run safely and efficiently.

    Events like RIN are always valuable for us. They give us the chance to connect with people across the industry, understand the challenges projects are facing and discuss how traffic management can better support infrastructure delivery.

    RIN London Networking Event

    Open Conversations Across the Industry

    One of the things that stood out most during the event was the openness of the conversations taking place across the sector.

    Tony explained that many of the discussions focused on improving collaboration between organisations working on major projects.

    โ€œWhat stood out most was the openness of the conversations and the willingness of people across the industry to collaborate. There was a clear shared focus on improving delivery, safety and efficiency across projects.โ€

    For us, that mindset is important. Infrastructure projects rely on multiple organisations working together, and strong communication between partners is often what makes the difference between a project running smoothly and one that faces delays.

    The Hidden Work Behind Traffic Management

    Another interesting takeaway from the event was how surprised many people were when they heard about the amount of planning involved in traffic management.

    Matt noted that a lot of conversations started with people assuming traffic management was simply about installing cones and signs.

    โ€œFor me was the number of people who were surprised when I explained the involvement we have with local authorities when gaining permission to carry out works on the highway.โ€

    In reality, a large part of what we do happens long before any equipment reaches site. Traffic management often involves working closely with local authorities, coordinating permits, planning access routes and ensuring projects meet regulatory requirements.

    Traffic Management London - Rail & Infrastructure

    Supporting Rail and Infrastructure Projects

    Traffic management plays a bigger role in infrastructure projects than many people realise.

    As Tony explained during the event, itโ€™s not just about road closures or temporary lights. Itโ€™s about creating a safe environment where engineers, contractors and the public can operate safely while work is carried out.

    โ€œTraffic management plays a far bigger role in rail and infrastructure projects than many people realise. Itโ€™s about creating a safe, controlled environment that allows engineers, contractors and the public to operate safely while work is carried out.โ€

    Even within rail projects where work may take place away from public roads, traffic management is often required for site access, logistics, and coordination with surrounding highways.

    Managing Permits and Local Authority Communication

    One of the areas that generated a lot of interest at the event was our work around permit management and local authority coordination.

    For many contractors, dealing with council communication and permit applications can take up a significant amount of time.

    Matt explained that one of the ways we support project teams is by taking on that responsibility ourselves.

    โ€œPermit management, opening and closing works on time with equipment removed and avoiding Fixed Penalty Notices. By leaving council communication to us, contractors can focus on the other aspects of their projects.โ€

    By managing the entire process, we help clients avoid delays, stay compliant whilst making life easy as possible for the project manager.

    Why We Attend Events Like RIN

    For us, attending events like RIN London is about more than showcasing our services. Itโ€™s about being part of the wider industry conversation.

    Tony summed this up well during the event.

    โ€œTraffic management plays a key role in enabling safe access and keeping projects moving, so being part of those conversations early helps us better support contractors, engineers and clients.โ€

    Understanding what the industry needs helps us continue improving how we deliver our services and support the infrastructure projects shaping the UK.

    Looking Ahead

    Weโ€™d like to thank the organisers of RIN London for hosting a fantastic event and providing the opportunity to connect with so many professionals across the rail and infrastructure sector.

    Events like this reinforce something we strongly believe at Paragon โ€” that successful projects are built on good communication, strong partnerships and careful planning.

    We look forward to continuing those conversations and supporting rail and infrastructure projects across the UK.

    Safety By Choice, Not By Chance.

  • International Womenโ€™s Day at Paragon Tm

    International Womenโ€™s Day at Paragon Tm

    Our business is built around people. From the teams delivering traffic management on the roads to the colleagues supporting projects behind the scenes, every individual plays a role in keeping operations safe, organised and moving forward.

    International Womenโ€™s Day provides a valuable opportunity to recognise the contribution of women across our business and the wider infrastructure industry. While traffic management and construction environments have traditionally been male dominated, the industry is evolving, and more women are building successful and influential careers across a wide range of roles.

    For us recognising and supporting women in the workplace is not just about one day of the year, it forms part of our wider commitment to social value, inclusivity and building a supportive working environment where people can grow and thrive.

    Rebecca Warne โ€“ HR Manager

    Rebecca Warne has spent the past decade building her career in human resources, progressing from HR Administrator to HR Manager while completing both her CIPD Level 5 and Level 7 qualifications. After developing her experience within the manufacturing sector, she joined Paragon Traffic Management three years ago.

    During her time with the business, Rebecca has played a key role in supporting employees and helping shape a positive and forward-thinking workplace culture.

    Rebeccaโ€™s journey into HR began during a period in her life where she needed to rebuild and stand independently. That experience taught her resilience, self-belief and the importance of strong support systems โ€” values that now shape her leadership style.

    For Rebecca, HR goes far beyond policies and procedures.

    โ€œFor me, HR isnโ€™t just about policies โ€” itโ€™s about people, growth and creating an environment where everyone feels heard, supported and able to succeed.โ€

    International Womenโ€™s Day is an important moment for Rebecca to reflect on the strength women demonstrate every day and the importance of continuing to open doors for the next generation.

    Debbie Cook โ€“ Operations Administrator

    Debbie Cook plays a key role within Paragonโ€™s operational team, supporting day-to-day coordination and bringing positivity to the workplace, something colleagues know her well for.

    Debbie describes her role simply as helping keep things running smoothly while making sure the people around her feel supported.

    When reflecting on her career so far, Debbie is proud of the journey she has taken and the obstacles she has overcome through determination and hard work.

    What Debbie enjoys most about working at Paragon is the people, both the colleagues she works alongside and the clients she supports.

    International Womenโ€™s Day is particularly meaningful to Debbie as it reminds her of the strong women who have influenced her life.

    โ€œIt makes me reflect on all the strong women in my life who helped shape who I am today by pushing me and supporting me.โ€

    One of her greatest inspirations is her mother, who Debbie describes as someone who shows strength and compassion every day.

    Kacey Peach โ€“ HR Apprentice

    Kacey Peach joined Paragon Traffic Management a year ago and is currently developing her career within the HR team as an apprentice.

    Before joining Paragon, Kacey gained experience across a variety of sectors including insurance and legal services. She had also previously worked within HR for another traffic management company, which gave her valuable insight into the industry.

    At Paragon, Kacey supports a wide range of HR functions including onboarding new staff, assisting with training, managing employee holidays and responding to HR queries.

    Alongside her role, she is currently studying towards her HR Support Level 3 qualification, helping her build knowledge and confidence within the profession.

    Kacey credits much of her development to the support she receives from Rebecca.

    โ€œBecky inspires me greatly. Iโ€™ve learnt so much from her and sheโ€™s always supportive of my progress and development.โ€

    Kacey also highlights the positive culture within Paragon, noting that it is refreshing to work in an environment where everyone genuinely works together as one team.

    Shirley Young โ€“ Head of Talent and Social Value

    As Head of Talent and Social Value, Shirley Young leads Paragonโ€™s recruitment strategy while also driving the companyโ€™s social value initiatives.

    Her role focuses on attracting the right people to the business, supporting career opportunities and ensuring Paragon contributes positively to the communities it operates within.

    Throughout her career, Shirley is most proud of the development of the teams she has led and the recognition they have achieved together through industry awards for talent acquisition.

    For Shirley, what makes Paragon special is simple, the people.

    โ€œThe people and my role. I love it all.โ€

    When asked what advice she would give to women starting their careers, Shirleyโ€™s message is clear:

    โ€œBe strong, be yourself and stand up for what you believe in.โ€

    Working within a sector that remains heavily male dominated makes International Womenโ€™s Day particularly important to Shirley.

    โ€œItโ€™s a chance to celebrate the small percentage of women working in traffic management and recognise those who are doing incredible things within the industry.โ€

    Shirley also takes inspiration from Joanna Lumley, whose confidence, composure and courage to stand up for what she believes in reflects the values Shirley admires.

    Supporting Women in Infrastructure

    Paragon Traffic Management recognises that improving representation and opportunity within industries like infrastructure and traffic management takes ongoing commitment.

    By supporting development opportunities, encouraging career progression and creating an inclusive workplace culture, the business aims to ensure everyone has the opportunity to succeed regardless of background or gender.

    Celebrating the women across the organisation is also an important part of Paragonโ€™s wider social value commitment, recognising the people who contribute to both the business and the communities it serves.

    As Shirley summarises:

    โ€œWe have some amazing women in Paragon who are committed, strong and brave, and I would like to celebrate every single one of them.โ€

    People are at the heart of everything we do and International Womenโ€™s Day is an opportunity to recognise the women who help drive the business forward every day.

    Safety By Choice, Not By Chance.

  • In-House Swept Path Analysis

    In-House Swept Path Analysis

    Weโ€™re always looking for ways to make things easier for our clients. Thatโ€™s why weโ€™re pleased to announce that Swept Path Analysis (SPA) is now available in-house.

    This means developers, planners, project managers and contractors can now access vehicle movement modelling, site access validation and technical drawings directly through Paragon. By keeping this service within our own team, weโ€™re able to provide faster turnaround times, clearer communication and a simpler approach to project planning.

    For clients already working with us for traffic management design, permits, and on-site delivery, this creates a much smoother process from planning stage through to project execution.

    What Is Swept Path Analysis?

    A Swept Path Analysis is a transport engineering assessment used to confirm that vehicles can safely move through a proposed or existing layout.

    Using specialist modelling software, engineers simulate the movement of a chosen vehicle through a design. The software calculates the full swept envelope of the vehicle, including the wheel paths, vehicle body overhang and tail swing during turns.

    The result is a detailed visual output that shows whether a vehicle can safely manoeuvre without colliding with kerbs, buildings, street furniture or other obstacles.

    Swept Path Analysis is commonly required for:

    Common Uses for Swept Path Analysis
    Planning applications for new developments
    Site access design for warehouses, depots and construction sites
    Car park and loading bay layouts
    Junction or roundabout design
    Emergency service access checks
    Highway design reviews

    Many local authorities require Swept Path Analysis as part of the planning process to ensure a layout is safe, practical and capable of accommodating larger vehicles before construction begins.

    Swept Path Analysis Matters

    Designs can sometimes appear workable on paper but fail once real vehicles attempt to use them. Swept Path Analysis helps identify these problems before construction begins, avoiding costly redesigns later.

    Typical issues identified through SPA include vehicles needing to mount kerbs, trailers encroaching into opposing lanes, or entrances that simply do not allow the correct turning radius.

    By modelling vehicle movements early in the design stage, project teams gain confidence that layouts will work in practice, not just in theory.

    Our In-House Swept Path Analysis Service

    Paragon now provides Swept Path Analysis as part of our wider traffic management and transport planning support.

    Our process is straightforward and designed to integrate easily with existing project workflows.

    Our Swept Path Analysis Process
    Review of site drawings or CAD layouts
    Selection of appropriate design vehicle (HGV, bus, refuse vehicle, emergency vehicle etc.)
    Simulation of vehicle movement through the layout
    Production of technical drawings showing tracking curves
    Supporting information for planning or engineering submissions

    Because our team also works directly within temporary traffic management design and delivery, the analysis benefits from real-world operational understanding rather than purely theoretical modelling.

    Supporting Development and Infrastructure Projects

    Swept Path Analysis is widely used across construction, utilities and infrastructure projects. Whether the requirement comes from a planning authority or from a design team validating site access, the goal is always the same โ€” to ensure that vehicles can move safely and efficiently through the proposed layout.

    For example, a developer planning a warehouse site may need to demonstrate that articulated HGVs can enter, turn and exit the yard without striking kerbs or fences. Through Swept Path Analysis, the movement of the vehicle can be simulated and validated before construction begins.

    For contractors working within urban environments, this type of modelling also helps ensure deliveries, plant access and service vehicles can operate safely within tight spaces.

    A More Joined-Up Approach

    One of the biggest advantages of bringing Swept Path Analysis in-house is the ability to connect it directly with other services we already provide.

    Paragon already supports clients with:

    • Traffic management design
    • Permit and licensing coordination
    • Temporary traffic signal deployment
    • Nationwide traffic management delivery

    Adding Swept Path Analysis strengthens our ability to support projects from early planning stages right through to live site delivery.

    Speak to Paragon About Swept Path Analysis

    If your project requires Swept Path Analysis for planning approval, site access validation or transport design, our team would be happy to help.

    With practical experience across highways, utilities, telecoms and construction projects, we understand how designs translate into real-world delivery.

    To discuss your project or request a quote for Swept Path Analysis, get in touch with the Paragon team today using the email or phone number below

    contact@Paragontm.co.uk

    0800 698 0267

  • Joining The 5% Club

    Joining The 5% Club

    Investing in Apprenticeships, Skills and Social Value

    We are proud to have joined The 5% Club, a nationwide movement of employers committed to developing skills, creating opportunity and strengthening the UK workforce through structured training and early career development.

    For a company built around people, safety and long-term partnerships, this step feels like a natural fit. Our growth has always been about more than expanding depots and fleets, itโ€™s about investing in people and building a stronger future for the industry.

    What The 5% Club Means

    The 5% Club brings together organisations that believe in creating real pathways into skilled careers. Members commit to developing talent through apprenticeships, graduate programmes and other โ€œearn and learnโ€ opportunities that allow people to build experience while gaining qualifications.

    Itโ€™s about giving people a way in, supporting their development and helping them build a career rather than simply filling a role.

    Already Going Beyond the Benchmark

    While members aspire to have at least 5% of their workforce in structured training roles, we are proud to already exceed that benchmark.

    Around 10%of our workforce are currently apprentices.

    That isnโ€™t a statistic we chased itโ€™s a reflection of how we believe a business should grow: by bringing people in, supporting them and helping them develop lasting careers.

    Apprenticeships Matter in Traffic Management

    Traffic management plays a vital role in keeping infrastructure projects moving safely and efficiently. Developing new talent ensures the industry maintains high standards and continues to evolve.

    For those joining Paragon, apprenticeships offer a practical, supported introduction to the industry. People learn on real sites, gain recognised qualifications and receive mentoring from experienced professionals who understand the realities of the job. More importantly, they gain confidence, purpose and a clear pathway forward.

    Social Value Through Opportunity

    Social value is often talked about in broad terms, but for us it starts with creating opportunities.

    Providing structured entry points into skilled work supports local communities, improves social mobility and helps address the industryโ€™s skills gap. It also strengthens the teams delivering projects every day.

    When people are given the chance to learn, progress and build a career, the benefits ripple far beyond the workplace.

    Building the Future Workforce

    Demand for safe, compliant and efficient traffic management continues to grow across the UK. Meeting that demand requires more than equipment and systems, it requires skilled, motivated people.

    By investing in apprenticeships and early career pathways, we are helping ensure the industry remains strong, professional and future ready.

    A People-Led Approach to Growth

    Joining The 5% Club reinforces what has always been central to Paragon: growth driven by people.

    We believe businesses perform better when they invest in their teams, create opportunities and support progression at every stage. This commitment helps us deliver reliable service for clients while building a culture where people feel supported, valued and able to thrive.

    Whether youโ€™re looking for a dependable traffic management partner or exploring a future in the industry, Paragon Traffic Management is committed to delivering safe, professional and people-focused solutions.

  • From Service to Civvy Life

    From Service to Civvy Life

    For many people leaving the Armed Forces, stepping into civilian life can feel uncertain. The structure, camaraderie and purpose that once shaped daily life can suddenly feel distant. At Paragon Traffic Management, we meet individuals at that crossroads every year and weโ€™ve seen first hand how the right support and opportunity can help them drastically.

    Gary Hodgkiss is one of those stories.

    His journey is one of resilience, humour, and determination, it shows why veterans bring immense value to the workplace.

    A Challenging Start That Built Inner Strength

    Garyโ€™s early years weren’t straightforward. Family change, emotional upheaval and a difficult relationship with school left him feeling disconnected from the world around him. School just wasnโ€™t a place he felt he belonged, and like many young people searching for direction, he drifted while trying to find purpose.

    A turning point came when he moved in with his Nan at 14. With his older brother providing guidance and stability, Gary began to find direction and a sense of belonging.

    Finding Purpose in the Army

    Joining the Army was something Gary had always wanted to do. With both grandfathers having served, military life felt like a natural path and quickly became the place where everything clicked.

    The Army gave Gary discipline, structure and responsibility. It gave him the camaraderie and trust he had long searched for. It taught him resilience and empathy through demanding training and peacekeeping deployments in Bosnia and Kosovo.

    Operating in extreme environments and high-pressure situations taught him adaptability and problem solving skills that still shape his life today.

    These are the qualities that veterans bring into civilian roles, calm thinking, teamwork, leadership and the ability to perform under pressure.

    Transitioning to Civilian Life

    After leaving the Army, Gary explored different roles, including bus driving and running a successful plastering business. Yet he found himself missing the teamwork, structure and pace of military life.

    That changed when a childhood friend introduced him to traffic management.

    The role immediately resonated. It offered teamwork, responsibility, structure and purpose, all the elements that had driven him into the military in the firsrt place.

    Later, he joined Paragon Traffic Management.

    From day one, he settled right in.

    Building a Life With Purpose

    Today, Gary brings the same professionalism, humour and reliability to his work that defined his Army service.

    Away from work, he is a devoted father of four and enjoys an active life with his partner Danielle, gym sessions, long walks in any weather and time spent with family.

    His story is a powerful reminder of where you begin does not define where you can go!

    Veterans can Thrive in Traffic Management

    Traffic management offers a natural transition for many service leavers.

    Veterans often excel because they bring:

    • reliability and strong work ethic
    • leadership and teamwork
    • resilience and adaptability
    • clear communication and quick thinking

    We recognise these strengths and provide support to help veterans settle into civilian careers.

    This includes mentoring, wellbeing support, access to professional guidance and a workplace culture built on respect and camaraderie.

    Supporting Veterans Beyond Recruitment

    Our commitment to the Armed Forces community goes beyond hiring. We attend Armed Forces career events, support reservists and cadets, and work with organisations helping service leavers transition into civilian employment.

    We believe providing opportunity, stability and support is not just good practice.

    Your Next Chapter Could Start Here

    If youโ€™re leaving the Armed Forces or adjusting to civilian life and wondering what comes next, you are not alone.

    There are companies ready to support you, value your experience and help you build a future.

    Garyโ€™s journey shows what is possible when the right person finds the right place.

    If youโ€™re ready to take the first step, weโ€™re ready to talk.

    ๐Ÿ“ฉ Contact Shirley: shirley.y@paragontm.co.uk


    Safety By Choice, Not By Chance

  • Disability Confident Level 1 Commitment

    Disability Confident Level 1 Commitment

    At Paragon Traffic Management, safety and accessibility go hand in hand. We are proud to announce that we have achieved Disability Confident Level 1 โ€“ Comitted status, marking an important step in our ongoing commitment to inclusion, accessibility and responsible service delivery across the UK.

    For organisations delivering works in busy urban environments such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds and Liverpool, accessibility is not an optional extra โ€” it is essential. Our commitment to the Disability Conficent scheme reinforces our approach to designing and delivering traffic management that works for everyone who uses the space.


    What Disability Conficent Means in Practice

    The UK Governmentโ€™s Disability Confident scheme encourages employers to think differently about disability and take meaningful action to improve how they recruit, support and develop disabled people.

    By achieving Level 1, Paragon has committed to:

    • Inclusive recruitment practices
    • Clear and accessible communication of opportunities
    • Offering interviews to disabled applicants who meet essential criteria
    • Providing reasonable workplace adjustments
    • Supporting existing employees to thrive in their roles

    This milestone strengthens our people-first culture and helps ensure we continue building a workforce that reflects the diverse communities we serve.


    Why Accessibility Matters in Urban Traffic Management

    In densely populated urban areas, traffic management setups are encountered by thousands of pedestrians and road users every day. This includes people with mobility impairments, visual impairments, neurodivergent conditions, parents with pushchairs, and elderly residents.

    By strengthening our understanding of accessibility and inclusion, we can:

    • Design safer pedestrian routes and clear crossings
    • Improve site layouts for visually impaired users
    • Reduce confusion and risk in high-footfall environments
    • Ensure compliance aligns with real-world usability
    • Support safer movement through busy worksites

    For clients operating in major cities, this approach helps protect public safety, maintain reputation, and support social value commitments.


    Supporting Social Value and Inclusive Communities

    Many infrastructure, telecoms, utilities and civil engineering projects now require demonstrable social value contributions. Our Disability Confident commitment supports these requirements by reinforcing our focus on equality, accessibility and community wellbeing.

    This commitment aligns with:

    • Public sector procurement expectations
    • Urban authority accessibility priorities
    • Equality and inclusion standards
    • Community safety and wellbeing initiatives

    A Step Forward โ€” With More to Come

    Achieving Disability Confident Level 1 is the beginning of a wider journey. We are committed to continually improving accessibility awareness, strengthening inclusive practices and ensuring our workplaces and worksites are welcoming and safe for everyone.

    As we continue delivering traffic management across major UK cities and urban environments, our focus remains clear:

    Safety By Choice, Not By Chance.

  • Supporting Armed Forces Into Civilian Careers

    Supporting Armed Forces Into Civilian Careers

    BFRS

    On 29 January 2026, Paragon Traffic Management attended the British Forces Resettlement Services (BFRS) Careers Fair in Tidworth, an event dedicated to helping Armed Forces personnel prepare for life beyond the military. For us, this was a chance to listen, learn, and better understand what Service Leavers need as they transition into the civilian world and how businesses like ours can step up and do better.

    The Reality of Leaving the Armed Forces

    One of the biggest takeaways from the day was just how daunting the move into civilian life can feel for many Service Leavers. Despite years of experience, responsibility and leadership, a lot of people we spoke to were understandably nervous about what comes next. Leaving a structured military environment and stepping into โ€œcivvy streetโ€ can feel overwhelming, especially when mental health challenges such as PTSD are part of that transition. It reinforced something we already believe strongly at Paragon, that employers have a responsibility to offer more than just a job. Mentoring, patience, and genuine support make a real difference, and itโ€™s something we are committed to providing for everyone who joins our business. What also stood out was the sheer quality of people we met. The skill sets, professionalism and attitude on display were genuinely impressive.

    A Busy, Productive Day

    The event itself was incredibly well attended, with over 300 people coming through the doors. Shirley, our Head of Talent Acquisition and Social Value, spoke directly with around 60 Service Leavers, many of whom have already shared their details so we can stay in touch as they approach their leave dates. Beyond recruitment conversations, the event was also a great opportunity to connect with other employers and learn how they support Veterans within their organisations. Those discussions matter because improving outcomes for Service Leavers works best when businesses learn from one another.

    Why Military Skills Translate

    Throughout the day, it became clear just how closely Armed Forces experience aligns with traffic management roles. Many Service Leavers already bring the core qualities our industry relies on every day. Most people we spoke to held full UK driving licences and demonstrated strong discipline, reliability, teamwork and the ability to follow instructions all essential in keeping roads and sites safe. We also met higher-ranking personnel with leadership, project management, engineering and technical skills that transfer naturally into supervisory, planning and management roles within Paragon. Traffic Management offers structure, responsibility and progression qualities that feel familiar to many coming from a military background.

    These Events Matter

    While BFRS events are recruitment-focused, our involvement goes far beyond filling vacancies. Paragon is genuinely committed to supporting the Armed Forces community. We actively support Veterans, Reservists, mobilisation and Cadets through our internal policies. Every Veteran who joins Paragon receives mentoring to help them settle into civilian working life. We also support the RBVE through charitable donations and fundraising activity, and weโ€™re committed to helping Cadets by offering CV writing and interview support so they can explore career options early including traffic management. This year, weโ€™ll be attending all BFRS events as part of that commitment, not just to recruit, but to show consistent, visible support.

    Looking Ahead

    The message we want people to take away from Tidworth is simple: Paragon is serious about supporting the Armed Forces community. Through job opportunities, mentoring, community involvement and charity work, weโ€™re building something that goes beyond recruitment. That commitment is reflected in our decision to apply for the Armed Forces Covenant Silver Award this year, with the aim of achieving Gold in the future. Itโ€™s not about badges itโ€™s about accountability, action and doing the right thing. If youโ€™re leaving the Armed Forces and looking for a civilian career where your skills are respected, supported and developed, Paragon Traffic Management is here to have that conversation whenever youโ€™re ready.

  • Streetworks, Telecoms, Accessibility and Lessons Learned

    Streetworks, Telecoms, Accessibility and Lessons Learned

    On the 4th Feburary, the Paragon Traffic Management team attended the Streetworks Solutions Mobile Communications Streetwork Engagement Day, bringing together organisations from across the telecoms and streetworks space.

    For us, events like this are about more than just lead generation. Theyโ€™re more about listening, learning, and understanding how we can continue to raise standards across telecoms traffic management, both operationally and socially.

    Telecoms Networking Event

    A Valuable Focus on Accessibility and Social Value

    One of the most impactful parts of the day was the presentation delivered by Seema Flowers, which focused on disability awareness and accessibility within streetworks and construction environments.

    This session resonated strongly with both Tony and Shirley. It prompted important conversations internally about how sites are experienced by people with disabilities and what more can be done to ensure traffic management layouts are inclusive, considerate and safe for everyone, not just compliant on paper.

    As a traffic management company working daily within public spaces, accessibility is not an optional extra. It is part of delivering sites properly. Events like this play a vital role in keeping that conversation alive and pushing the industry forward.

    Why Events Like This Still Matter to Paragon

    Despite limited immediate commercial opportunities, the day reinforced why Paragon continues to engage with telecoms events. They provide space to connect with peers, learn from specialists, and reflect on how traffic management supports wider social outcomes particularly around disability access and public safety.

    For telecoms project coordinators, planners and delivery teams, these conversations matter. Good traffic management isnโ€™t just about permits and layouts, itโ€™s about understanding the people moving through sites every day.

    Telecoms Traffic Management

    Thank You to the Organisers

    Weโ€™d like to thank Streetworks Solutions for hosting a well-organised, thought-provoking event and for having us along. Creating a forum where operational delivery, compliance, accessibility and social value are all discussed together is an important step in raising standards across the telecoms sector.

    Weโ€™ll continue to take these lessons forward as we work with telecoms clients nationwide, delivering traffic management thatโ€™s clear, considered and built around people.

    #SafetyByChoiceNotByChance

  • New Runcorn Depot Strengthens North West Coverage

    New Runcorn Depot Strengthens North West Coverage

    Weโ€™re proud to announce that weโ€™ve officially opened our new Runcorn depot, giving us a stronger presence across the North West and allowing us to provide faster response times, more local support and greater capacity for projects of every scale. This site has been built with the same approach that drives everything we do, Safety by Choice, Not by Chance.

    A Purpose Built TM Hub for the North West

    As Tony shows in our announcement video, the Runcorn depot is a fully operational base supporting works across Liverpool, Manchester, Warrington, Cheshire, Merseyside and the surrounding areas. We designed this location to raise the bar for the speed, quality and consistency of our Traffic Management delivery.

    Over the last six months, weโ€™ve invested heavily to support this expansion. Weโ€™ve brought in two hundred brand-new portable traffic lights and added around thirty-five new vehicles to our fleet, all of which are already working across the UK every day. Inside the depot, weโ€™ve created a dedicated battery room with fully charged replacements ready to go at all times, allowing our teams to swap units quickly and keep jobs running without interruption.

    Weโ€™ve also introduced a dedicated area for our Quick Lock signage systems, giving us the ability to deliver clean, tidy setups without using old sandbags. All our signage, cones, pedestrian systems and barriers in Runcorn are brand new, because we wanted this depot to set a clear standard for how we operate in the North West. The site also includes a new office and meeting area so we can host client visits, presentations and planning sessions directly from the depot, while maintaining all equipment in-house to Paragonโ€™s usual standard.

    Why Runcorn โ€” and Why Now

    Demand for Traffic Management in the North West continues to rise across utilities, highways, construction, rail and events. Opening a permanent base in Runcorn means we can deploy local TMOs even faster, reduce travel time, cut emissions and respond more effectively to emergency or short-notice works. It also allows us to store more equipment locally and support larger or more complex programmes without relying on resources from further away.

    Weโ€™ve always taken pride in the condition of our equipment, and itโ€™s something clients notice immediately. Itโ€™s not unusual for people on-site to ask whether weโ€™ve bought everything new just for their job but, the reality is that we simply look after our kit and keep it clean, safe and ready to go, because thatโ€™s part of who we are.

    Supporting Projects Across the North West

    With the Runcorn depot now fully operational, weโ€™re able to move quicker than ever on lane closures, TM plans, permits, temporary traffic lights, emergency callouts and major infrastructure works. Our 24-hour turnaround for quotes and TM plans remains the same, but having a dedicated North West base gives us improved speed, flexibility and reliability for clients across the region.

    Work With Us โ€” or Join Us

    The Runcorn depot is open, stocked and ready to support projects throughout the North West. Whether youโ€™re looking for Traffic Management services in the North West or exploring a career with a company that invests heavily in its people and equipment, weโ€™re here and ready to help.

    You can reach us on 0800 698 0267, email contact@paragontm.co.uk, or visit development.skyline-internet.com/ptm/.

    Paragon Traffic Management โ€” Safety by Choice, Not by Chance.