Strategy Behind the Standard
Nu-flex is an innovative surfacing material, blending HGV recycled rubber tyres with aggregate and a polyurethane binder. It is a part of a range of ‘rubberised porous’ solutions that are offered by Nu-phalt Contracting (NPC). It is cold-laid by hand and provides a smooth surface with plenty of grip, perfect for cycling.
The material has been implemented at two sites in Essex. The first site is Donovan Gardens, Herongate, Brentwood where Nuflex was used to re-build a public right of way as part of the 2019/2020 footways programme. The second site is Mariners Way, Maldon which was completed in 2020/2021 footways programme. Further trials in Essex have been proposed and if successful, the material will be considered for more widespread use. Another successful example of Nu-flex being used is on Britannia’s Valley of Stone Greenway in Lancashire where it was implemented in 2018. The bridleway delivered is safe and has repurposed almost 2000 tyres. For more information on this scheme and its success visit this link.
Benefits of Nu-flex include:
- Resistance to rutting, defects and hazards
- Porous, meaning no puddles, no sheet ice and little spray for cyclists
- Durability, flexibility, and grip
- Environmentally friendly
- Very low maintenance
- Compliant with Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) standards
- Design life more than 15 years
Best Practice Guidance to be used by Essex Highways
Essex Highways’ Annual Plan 2020-21
ECC Recommendations
This material should be considered when re-surfacing and or constructing any cycle scheme
Best Practice Design in Essex
Billericay Rd, Brentwood