Tarmac has completed an extensive resurfacing programme on the M4 between junctions 30 and 32 in South Wales ahead of schedule.
With work delivered under ‘challenging conditions' within 'carefully managed' traffic closures, Tarmac said that the scheme ‘showcased the scale, precision and collaboration required' to successfully upgrade one of the UK's busiest strategic road corridors.
The project saw Tarmac resurface roughly 8.5km of motorway to improve ‘ride quality, durability and long-term network performance' for thousands of road users every day. In total, over 20,000 tonnes of asphalt were laid during the programme, with materials supplied from Connelly Quarry to support efficient delivery and consistent product quality throughout the works.
The company stated that, due to the location and ‘complexity of the scheme', logistics and productivity were ‘critical'. The project used an MT 3000-3 Offset PowerFeeder to ‘maximise paving efficiency' and maintain ‘continuous material flow'.
The project also featured a ‘significant package of infrastructure renewal activities' to help improve safety and extend the operational life of the motorway. Over 55,000 metres of road markings were replaced, with 5,971 new road studs installed to improve visibility and guidance for road users.
Eight bridge deck joints were repaired as part of wider asset maintenance works, which were essential to protect bridge structures from water ingress and long-term deterioration. Tarmac also replaced more than 50 traffic loops during the project, which help monitor vehicle movement and traffic management.
To maximise the project delivery's sustainability, 26,754 tonnes of recycled asphalt planings (RAP) were recovered from the existing carriageway.
Tarmac closely coordinated the project between operational teams, supply chain partners and traffic management specialists to allow works to be completed safely and efficiently while minimising disruptions on a live motorway network.
