M27 Widening

Concrete pipe was initially specified in diameters up to 600mm; however, Polypipe CGU were able to break the specification due to the speed that its products could be installed in comparison – an important factor given that the installation of the drainage system took place on a live highway. Polypipe CGU supplied the drainage system using a range of diameters from 150-600mm. Ridgidrain with integral socket was used on the busiest sections of the motorway to further speed up the installation process and achieve the demanding construction programme.

The £78 million road improvement scheme is being carried out by Costain on behalf of the Highways Agency. Polypipe CGU was awarded the contract to supply the drainage system following a number of successful road projects with Costain, its ability to re-engineer the specification, and distribution network which ensured continued deliveries direct to site.

With a lightweight, yet robust construction, Ridgidrain was easy for the Costain on-site team to handle and install. As each pipe length is light enough to carry, the requirement for heavy plant was minimised which offered a further benefit, given the close proximity of the trench to the live carriageway.

Costain’s Construction Manager for the M27 project, Craig Reade, was very pleased with the installation of the Ridgidrain surface water drainage system, saying: “Using Polypipe CGU’s products enabled us to achieve the demanding construction programme targets on this project. The product is easy to handle and install, and Polypipe CGU’s ability to re-engineer the specification on the M27 project is a great example of the capabilities and performance of their products, service and technical knowledge.”