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When Solihull Borough Council was looking for a block paving system for the refurbishment of Hurst Lane Place, the council was seeking something that would meet both aesthetics and performance of the busy urban site. Tobermore presented a variety of product offerings and the council was particularly impressed with Tobermore’s Fusion block paving with its striking granite aggregate surface.
The council’s plans for the highway improvements at Hurst Lane Place have centred on the Chester Road in Castle Bromwich and the Hurst Lane and Hazelhurst Road junctions.
The scheme has addressed a number of issues – to improve road safety, provide additional and improved on-street parking, make the area more convenient and accessible for pedestrians, and enhance the appearance of the streets.
On a broader scale, the rejuvenation of Hurst Lane Place was also aimed at supporting the local economy and encouraging investment in the area.
The project was publicly consulted on in February 2014. Balfour Beatty managed the works, which commenced in October 2014 with completion in April 2015.
To fulfil the ambitions of the scheme, Solihull Council was seeking a hard landscaping solution that would meet its expectations in aesthetics and performance. The decision to incorporate a chic but simplistic grid block paving design was made to enhance the quality of the scheme.
Tobermore presented a variety of the company’s product offerings and the council was particularly impressed with the sophistication of Tobermore’s Fusion block paving, which features a striking granite aggregate surface layer.
Chris Morton, Senior Engineer at Solihull Council, commented: “The competitive prices, aesthetics, availability of multiple product sizes and complementary colour options made our decision very easy.”
Tobermore Fusion block paving was specified in the sparkling tones of Silver, Mid Grey and Graphite. The products were installed in a random colour laying pattern by Kelbec Civils Ltd, creating a unique, stylish and contemporary landscape.
Produced at Tobermore’s 50 acre manufacturing plant in Northern Ireland, Fusion is made with high cement content, ensuring the product is extremely hard and durable: an essential requirement for a public realm scheme like Hurst Lane Place which experiences high volumes of pedestrian use.
Tobermore’s ability to meet the demanding schedule of the project was a crucial factor in the council’s decision making process, and Tobermore did not disappoint.
Chris Morton noted that Tobermore’s “minimal lead times for delivery” and “availability of stock at all times” surpassed the council’s expectations. He said it was a huge asset for the council, ensuring that the construction period was never delayed due to material shortages or lengthy delivery lead times.
Solihull Council is thrilled with the outcome of the Hurst Lane Place regeneration scheme, having received an array of positive feedback from stakeholders and residents.
Chris Morton stated: “We would happily recommend Tobermore products to any architect, contractor or developer seeking a reliable hard landscaping solution with visual appeal.”
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