Somerset CC use recycling technique to improve roads

Somerset County Council will look to strengthen and improve 2,300m of carriageway by using a road recycling technique developed by Stabilised Pavements.

The technique will allow 70% of existing road materials to be recycled. This method will consist of a three step process, involving 11 different machines. This process will see the old road pulverised and compacted, then tarmacking of a new surface.

The environmental benefits will not only reduce the need to transport materials, but also see works completed earlier than expected.

Councillor David Fothergill, Somerset County Council’s cabinet member for highways, said: “The Cartgate is a very busy road so we’ve had to look carefully at how best to carry out these much needed improvements without causing too much disruption.

“This road recycling technique is not suitable for all jobs but can be very effective in the right location. It will be cheaper, greener and quicker than other methods, but we will still be excavating deep under the road to resolve the underlying weakness and prevent future problems with potholes.”