Совет графства Редкар стал первым в Великобритании, применившим графеновый асфальт для ремонта дорог

A council in East Cleveland has become one of the first in the UK to use a new road resurfacing technology. Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council has teamed up with Wilton-based firm Universal Matter and Tarmac to use graphene-enhanced asphalt in the resurfacing of Locke Road. The project is thought to be the UK's first commercial application of the technology, moving it beyond test installations and into wider real-world use. Around 260 tonnes of asphalt were laid across 2,300 square metres of road surface as part of the resurfacing scheme. Graphene is an advanced material made from carbon and, when added to asphalt, is designed to help roads better withstand the wear and tear caused by traffic and weather. Universal Matter, the developer of the technology, said independent testing suggests it could increase the lifespan of road surfaces compared with conventional asphalt. While the long-term condition of the road will continue to be monitored, supporters believe graphene could help roads stay in better condition for longer and reduce the need for maintenance. Councillor Carl Quartermain, Redcar council's cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "We were proud to be an early adopter of graphene-enhanced asphalt, working alongside Universal Matter and Tarmac to trial an innovative product developed here in our borough and we are delighted to have now used it successfully in the region's first commercial application of the technology. "Many people feel that road surfaces do not last as long as they once did, but the reality is that our highways are carrying far greater volumes of traffic and heavier vehicles than in previous decades. "That is why it is so important that we continue to explore new materials and technologies that have the potential to improve durability, reduce the need for maintenance, and deliver better long-term value for taxpayers." The council said the project reflects its focus on exploring new ways of maintaining roads at a time when local authorities are facing increasing traffic levels, rising maintenance costs and budget pressures. Councils also face ongoing complaints about potholes and damaged road surfaces from residents. Universal Matter UK managing director Andy Gent said: "Redcar and Cleveland has shown real leadership by moving from trial work into a commercial road scheme. "Councils are under enormous pressure to keep roads in good condition while making every pound of highways funding work harder." Tarmac regional technical manager Ian Carr, added: "Working with Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and Universal Matter has allowed us to apply the technology in a live commercial setting, helping build the evidence base for longer-lasting, more resilient road surfaces." The company is now talking to other local authorities across the North East about getting involved with the project and testing out the new technology.