LANDSCAPING SERVICES
The video also includes an illuminating interview with the original project designer about longterm performance and maintenance , and also the benefits of CBPP for both existing and newly-planted trees . Constructed in 2003 , this large out-of-town car park receives regular daily trafficking from commuters and shoppers . With around 500 car spaces , the 13,000 m2 of concrete block permeable paving has delivered problem-free performance over 17 years .
The grit-filled joints do have moss in them but , as a porous substance itself , water passes through without problems . The site is surrounded by vegetation , with some tall trees and well-established shrubs . Maintenance has effectively been cosmetic – occasionally sweeping tree debris and vegetation from the surface after storms and leaf fall in the autumn .
Interpave Information Resource
A full report on this research project video – as well as more information , detailed guidance and case studies on concrete block permeable paving – are available from the Interpave website .
Here , you can also view a new Interpave CPD webinar , presented by Bob Bray of Robert Bray Associates , SuDS practitioners with over 20-years ’ experience and designers of the Bridget Joyce Square project . The video webinar explores how straightforward flow controls can optimise and expand CBPP capabilities , with techniques including water storage in paving compartments deployed around a site to integrate SuDS within development and to avoid additional land-take . www . paving . org . uk
Photo courtesy of Robert Bray Associates
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2020
Sustenance for Trees Extensive mature trees around and within the site were simply retained as part of the scheme . The CBPP removes pollutants from water passing through , providing treated water sustenance for trees . The roots have continued to grow within the permeable pavement sub-base but – importantly – there have been no visible signs of block rutting or lifting , or roots coming through the surface .
Retaining and introducing trees , and other green infrastructure , within our towns and cities is now a key planning requirement . For example , the National Model Design Code says : ‘ All schemes will be expected to follow national policy by achieving a 10 % net gain in biodiversity . All new streets should include street trees ’. But measures must be put in place to allow trees to grow and mature over time , enabling them to deliver numerous benefits . Development design that facilitates sustenance of green infrastructure is therefore crucial .
Award-winning Project As CBPP allows the same pattern of run-off transfer to the ground as natural vegetation , it allows water to reach tree and shrub roots , despite providing a hard surface above . This is endorsed by the current Code of Practice for accessibility in the external environment , BS 8300-1:2018 , which states that : ‘ Tree grilles should be avoided . Smooth or paved permeable surfaces should be used wherever practicable ’. CBPP technology will play a key role in future . In addition to new permeable pavements for developments , CBPP overlays to existing , conventional road bases can be used in conjunction with raingardens or bioretention areas to store water for irrigation while improving the public realm . This approach is exemplified in the award-winning Bridget Joyce Square , London , project shown above . www . paving . org . uk / home / permeable-paving /
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