Plastic roads to be trialled

KWS Infra, the road building division of VolkerWessels, is hoping to trial a new “Plastic Road” system in Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Director of KWS Infra Rolf Mars said: "Plastic offers lots of advantages compared to current road structures, both in the construction and the maintenance of it. It is also much more durable.”

According to Mars, space in the 'hollow' roads can be used for cables and pipes or water storage.

Recycled plastic is processed into prefabricated road sections.

Mars added: "Plastic Road is virtually maintenance free. It is resistant to corrosion and weathering. We estimate that the life span of roads can be tripled.

"The potential of the concept is huge. At present we are looking for partners to carry out together with our pilot. In addition to manufacturers from the plastics and plastics industry, we are thinking of the recycling industry, universities and other research institutions.”