Sustainability boost as recycled kerbs gain national highways approval

A recycled plastic kerbing system has secured a major regulatory milestone, paving the way for wider use of low-carbon materials across Britain's road network.

Duraproducts has announced that its Durakerb product has received updated BBA HAPAS certification, formally authorising the recycled polymer kerb for use across the UK's highways infrastructure under the latest national standards.

The approval coincides with changes to National Highways' Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works (MCHW), which now recognises polymer kerbs within official specifications. Together, the developments represent a significant step forward for sustainable construction materials seeking mainstream adoption within the highways sector.

Although Durakerb has held BBA HAPAS certification since 2008, the latest approval aligns the product with updated CC/207 requirements, providing further assurance that recycled polymer alternatives can meet the performance, durability and safety standards expected on major infrastructure projects.

The certification is expected to simplify procurement and specification processes for local authorities, contractors and government agencies by removing the need for additional project-specific approvals or testing. It also offers independent verification of the product's long-term performance, helping clients incorporate more recycled materials into future schemes with greater confidence.

The move reflects a broader shift within the infrastructure sector as organisations seek practical ways to reduce carbon emissions and support circular economy principles. Traditionally, highways projects have relied heavily on resource-intensive materials, but growing environmental targets are encouraging the adoption of alternatives that reduce reliance on virgin resources.

Duraproducts founder Phil Sutton described the approval as a landmark moment for sustainable innovation within the highways industry.

He said the combination of updated certification and inclusion within National Highways specifications removes longstanding obstacles that have limited the uptake of recycled alternatives.

According to Sutton, the changes provide a clear route for products such as Durakerb to be specified on projects nationwide, helping reduce material consumption, cut carbon impacts and support a more circular approach to infrastructure delivery.

The development is likely to be welcomed by clients and contractors seeking proven methods of improving environmental performance while maintaining the technical standards required for the UK's strategic and local road networks.