Doncaster Council launches recycled plastic curbing trial
Two sites have been chosen for the test project, which will see concrete at roadsides replaced with sustainable materials.
Doncaster Council’s Highway Operations and the Highways Asset Management Team have researched a number of options to reduce reliance and handling of concrete kerbs and channels, and decreasing exposure to silica dust and carbon emissions.
Duraproducts’ Durakerb was chosen due to its superior health and safety credentials – primarily its lightweight nature which significantly reduces wear and tear on workers. Weighing under 6kg, each unit can be lifted by one person, by hand, with no machinery needed to install. It is also possible to handsaw and resize without additional equipment.
The product is made from 88% recycled and recyclable polymer units. Milk bottles, caps and closures, alongside other household polymer waste, which would have otherwise ended up in landfill. It is also possible to repurpose Durakerb for projects after the lifespan of its initial application, removing emissions associated with recycling.
Two locations have been chosen by Doncaster Council. One is considered a ‘high stress’ area, which suffers from regular GV override with previous repair jobs using traditional cement having failed. The second site is under lower stress and is predominantly used by domestic vehicles. Together, these should show the effectiveness of Durakerb in very different situations.
‘It’s great to see Doncaster Council leading the way in sustainable infrastructure,’ said Andy Leah, General Manager of Duraproducts. ‘By partnering with Duraproducts and implementing our innovative recycled plastic kerbing units, the council is not only improving the environment but also prioritising the health and safety of its workforce. The successful trials demonstrate the viability and benefits of this sustainable solution, and we hope to see more councils adopting similar practices in the future.’
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Image: Duraproducts