Ilford roadworks scheme in London-first cement use

The Heathcote Avenue, Clayhall project is the first in London to use ultra-low-carbon cement, the council said.

It has delivered a total carbon saving of 75 tonnes—the equivalent of driving around the world 11 times.

The project combined resurfacing works with the construction of rain gardens to improve drainage and reduce flood risk.

It is the first Redbridge scheme of its kind to integrate multiple carbon-saving measures into a single project.

Some of the newly cemented road (Image: Redbridge Council)

Cllr Jo Blackman, cabinet member for environment and sustainability, said: “I am proud that Redbridge Council is leading the way by bringing together these low carbon innovations.

"Each element of the project has used new low carbon materials or equipment to achieve impressive carbon reductions which help contribute to our climate strategy.”

The council said that central to the project’s innovation was the use of 'EVO zero' cement, developed by Heidelberg and used for the first time in London.

The cement’s near-zero carbon content is achieved through advanced carbon capture technology.

Additional sustainable elements included a more environmentally-friendly asphalt mix, recycled plastic kerbs, organic topsoil, solar-powered temporary traffic signals, and vehicles powered by electricity or HVO biofuel.

The scheme was delivered by Kenson Highways, whose director David Shelley said: “This scheme shows that Redbridge is genuinely leading the way in delivering lower carbon highways projects.

"At Kenson Highways, we are more than happy to work alongside Redbridge to introduce new innovative materials and technologies, and to help trial approaches that reduce carbon without compromising quality or safety.

"Schemes like this demonstrate what can be achieved when forward thinking authorities and delivery partners work together.”