Plastic at heart of Irish road project

Dura products contain a high percentage of recycled plastic. Photo: Killeshal

The project on the N63 highway in Longford, Ireland, aims to enhance accessibility for pedestrians, wheelchair users and cyclists, aligning with recently published national guidelines.

The new National Cycle Manual, developed by the National Transport Authority, calls for the creation of safe cycling infrastructure that caters to people of all ages and abilities across Ireland.

Consequently, several roads and pavements in the area require significant upgrades to meet these national standards.

Clandillon selected the Duradrain Shallow Profile linear CKD as its surface water management solution.

Duradrain collects surface run-off through access points along the cycle lane’s edge, leading to concealed outlets within the channel body.

This approach promises to extend the infrastructure project’s lifespan, while enhancing safety for road and pavement users, particularly on highways.

The Duradrain product is made from 70% recycled materials and contains the equivalent of 199 recycled bottles, caps and closures in each unit, reducing its carbon footprint.

Energy use is also reduced during transportation and installation, due to its low weight compared with traditional concrete products.

Circular end-of-life benefits

Additionally, Dura said the product can be repurposed, recycled and have its carbon recovered at the end of its life.

Over the past three decades, the combined kerb and drainage (CKD) approach has gained popularity in the UK and Ireland as a method for surface water collection.

Since 2002, CKD systems have adhered to a Harmonised European Standard, increasing their attractiveness in mainland Europe and in international markets.

Steve Bennett, MD at Dura Products, said, “The unique features of our Shallow Profile Duradrain make it the perfect solution for local authorities looking to deliver safe and efficient drainage within modern infrastructure design, to prevent flooding or settlement and to protect surfaces, with an added sustainability benefit to boot!”