In accordance with new legislation and design guidance, projects such as Histon Road in Cambridge are delivering infrastructure that provides better bus, walking and cycle facilities for those traveling into the city.
With Greater Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire set to grow by up to 30% over the next 15 years, The Greater Cambridge Partnership is ensuring vital infrastructure improvements are more sustainable, encouraging more environmentally friendly modes of transport, essential for towns and cities of the future.
Involved in early design, Dura Products were tasked to produce a modified system of combined kerb and surface drainage that would first provide an efficient collection and discharge of rainfall across the project. There were many challenges to overcome, not least in the smooth transitions through each change of function where variable kerb heights were necessary to allow access and delineate routes for cycle users, pedestrians and vehicle traffic.
This modern approach to design, prioritising overall environmental improvement is also reflected in the choice of materials used and processes of construction.
The partnership wanted to use products that offered a minimum impact to the environment. Duradrain was chosen specifically as a low carbon solution with a high recycled content. The lightweight properties of the system mean that resources, energy, risk, and the demands on the workforce are lessened, from delivery too and around site, from initial set-out through to final installation.
Histon Road is the first site to receive Duradrain’s new multi-use combined kerb and drainage system. The units were delivered by Dunstable-based stockists Hauraton UK and installed by J Breheny Contractors for Skanska Major Projects.
Using Duradrain diverts waste plastic from entering the waste cycle, reducing carbon emissions due to the lighter install with fewer vehicles needed for transportation.
Simon Wilkinson, Sales Manager at Hauraton UK said: “We worked closely with the team at Breheny which purchased the sustainable road kerbs from its supplier Keyline Nationals. The product was delivered within timescales during a difficult period for transport, and the precise installation demonstrates what a professional groundwork company can achieve.”
Steve Bennett, Managing Director at Dura Products added: “We are delighted to have been involved in this project which serves as a true example of innovation in action and the team has illustrated perfectly how to adopt a new approach to infrastructure design.
“The benefits of Duradrain go beyond its sustainability advantages, and this is clearly demonstrated at Histon Road. Its lightweight nature allows one-operative installation, which has enabled the supply and installation of all units whilst coronavirus restrictions or complete lockdown has been in place.”
