Bellenden’s integrated public affairs and communications campaign with Norfolk County Council to dual the final stretch of the A11 link road into Norwich won a Local Government Communications Gold Award for Place Leadership. Using innovative communications and media support, the campaign ensured value for money, costing just half of the council’s budget.
After an intense campaign the council was awarded £135 million from the Department of Transport to begin construction on the scheme.
Bellenden’s programme took the campaign’s messages to the heart of the decision making process receiving Ministerial support, backing by key civil servants and cross party support from the region’s MPs.
Local support was gathered from regional government bodies, residents and the business community through using web 2.0, petitions, and the media. Eastern Daily Press adopted the council’s campaign as its main summer and autumn campaign.
“By working together, we have achieved a stunning victory to bring forward completion of the dualling of the A11 by 18 months. Bellenden’s advice and engagement with decision makers in Westminster has been an important part in our success.”
Councillor Daniel Cox, Leader of Norfolk County Council