At Kenson Highways, we are committed to leading the way in innovation and sustainability within the highways maintenance sector. In collaboration with Redbridge Council, we are pleased to announce the launch of an important programme aimed at replacing traditional gully grates with innovative composite recycled grates across the borough. This initiative is a significant step forward in enhancing operational efficiency, improving safety, and supporting long-term environmental goals.
Key Benefits of the New Composite Gully Grates
The new composite gully grates bring several advantages that enhance both the operational performance and environmental sustainability of our highways maintenance work.
1. Improved Safety and Operational Efficiency
One of the most notable benefits of the new composite grates is their reduced weight. At just 15kg, these grates weigh less than half the weight of traditional metal grates, significantly lowering the risk associated with manual handling for our operatives. The grates are also designed to be easier to open and close, streamlining the cyclical gully cleaning process. This improvement reduces both time and effort, allowing for a more efficient maintenance routine.
2. High Performance and Durability
Despite their lighter weight, these composite grates offer exceptional strength. Fully compliant with highways specification standards, they are designed to withstand up to 40 tonnes, making them a reliable choice for busy urban environments. Their durability ensures long-term performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements and enhancing the overall lifecycle of the infrastructure.
3. Theft Deterrence
The issue of stolen gully and manhole covers has been a longstanding challenge within the industry. Traditionally, metal grates were often stolen for resale, leading to costly replacements and increased operational disruption. However, the new composite grates are made from materials with no scrap value, effectively eliminating the incentive for theft. This innovation offers enhanced security and ensures the integrity of the infrastructure.
4. Sustainability at the Core
In addition to their durability, the new grates are fully recyclable at the end of their life, making them a key component in Kenson Highways’ commitment to sustainability. The shift from traditional metal grates to composite materials also contributes to long-term carbon reduction in the borough’s highways operations, helping Redbridge Council meet its environmental targets.
Progress So Far: Installation and Future Plans
To date, Kenson Highways have successfully installed 29 new composite grates in the areas of Clayhall, Fairlop, and Hainault, where defects were identified during routine inspections. The first phase of the programme will involve the replacement of 198 gully grates across 13 wards. This ongoing project is part of a broader initiative to modernise and enhance the borough’s infrastructure, providing a safer, more efficient, and sustainable environment for residents and businesses alike.
Trial of Viafix for Permanent Reinstatement
As part of this programme, we are also conducting a trial of Viafix, a high-performance cold-lay permanent reinstatement material that has been successfully used on the Transport for London road network. While Viafix may not offer direct carbon reduction benefits, it provides the most robust cold reinstatement solution available, ensuring that reinstatements remain durable and reliable for the long term. This approach delivers value for money and ensures the integrity of the road network over time.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Innovation, Safety, and Sustainability
At Kenson Highways, we are proud to play a role in the transformation of Redbridge’s highways infrastructure. This composite gully grate replacement programme is just one example of our broader commitment to innovation, safety, and sustainability in everything we do. By embracing new technologies, prioritising environmental responsibility, and delivering high-quality service, we continue to set the standard for excellence in the highways maintenance industry.
As we move forward with this project, we remain dedicated to exploring further opportunities for innovation and sustainability, ensuring that our work not only meets the needs of today but also contributes to a greener, safer, and more resilient future.
About Kenson Highways
Kenson Highways is a leading provider of highways maintenance services across London and the Home Counties, specialising in delivering high-quality, efficient, and sustainable solutions. We are committed to improving the safety, performance, and sustainability of the road networks we maintain, working closely with local authorities and partners to create better environments for communities.
