In addition to being an equity investor, John Laing is actively involved in managing the DBFO Co. Full-time commercial and operational staff are seconded into the DBFO Co. management team.

The A55 was a landmark deal at the time, financial close being concluded within two months of selection of UK Highways as preferred bidder.

Good relations with the local community were fundamental during construction of the A55 Llandegai to Holyhead Trunk Road in North Wales. Regular meetings were held with councillors and community representatives to brief them on the progress and consult on any issues of concern.

In recognition of this close working relationship, the Carillion Laing Joint Venture (UK Highways A55) was given a Considerate Contractor award by the Construction Industry Board.

Maintaining the quality of the environment of Anglesey was a high priority of the construction project, especially as the area impacted upon sites of Special Scientific Interest, locally important conservation areas and many high quality wetland habitats. New habitats were created for water voles, badgers, otters and great crested newts. Nearly 350,000 plants, hedges and shrubs were planted and a new island was created for the local tern colony.