Reducing congestion on the road network: Part 2 Use of temporary backfill

The use of temporary backfill in road or street works as an ‘immediate reinstatement’ could provide benefits in terms of enabling the road to be opened during peak periods and actual works confined to off peak periods such as weekends. Trials using commonly available granular materials (Type 1, Sharp Sand and Pea Shingle) with a thin asphalt surface course were undertaken in a large 2m by 2m opening and trafficked under accelerating loading conditions using the TRL Pavement Test Facility. The results demonstrated that several options could provide a temporary running surface that could be trafficked for several days. This is an option that should be considered at the planning stage of any works. The use of temporary backfill in an opening immediately adjacent to the carriageway to maximise the number of running lanes is also considered. The report also examines the cost benefits to be gained.