Judges were impressed with the exceptional results that Fastrack has achieved so far as well as the programme and budgetary control that has seen this complex and high-value project delivered right to plan and on schedule.

Most notably, judges felt that the high regard in which local residents in Kent Thameside hold the Fastrack system was clear evidence of excellent planning, delivery and operation by the project partners.

The award, sponsored by Faber Maunsell, was made last week at a Bus Priority Conference in Glasgow organised by PTRC, the transport industry’s leading training organisation. The annual conference, now in its fourth year, brings together industry specialists from across he UK and beyond.

Receiving the award, Fastrack Project Manager David George commented: "This is fantastic news, yet further recognition of how innovative and important Fastrack is both locally and as a national example of best practice. This award is for all our project partners but particularly the joint ventures between Kent County Council and Jacobs, and Prologis and Dartford Borough Council, who have actually delivered the bus priority infrastructure that really is ‘outstanding’!"

News of the award came last week as Minister for Housing, Rt Hon Caroline Flint MP was visiting Kent Thameside. Her visit included a trip on Fastrack when she saw for herself how Government funding has helped successfully kick Start what has become the multi-award winning Fastrack project.

Fastrack has now been operating for nearly two years, the first route having been launched in March 2006. Over 3.5 million passengers have been carried.