Fast Installation is Key for M27 Drainage Solution by Polypipe

Polypipe supplied its surface water drainage pipes for the widening of the M27 motorway between junctions 3-4 and 10-11 near Portsmouth.

Concrete pipe was originally specified in diameters up to 600mm, however Polypipe were able to break the specification as its products could be installed quicker – an important factor given that the installation of the drainage system took place on a live highway. Polypipe supplied the drainage system using a range of diameters from 150-600mm. Ridgidrain with integral socket was used on the busiest sections of motorway to 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 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 Costain’s 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 to Costain 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. “Using Polypipe’s products enabled us to achieve the demanding construction programme targets on this project as the pipe was easy to handle and install.”

“Polypipe Civils’ 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.”