Increasing urbanisation and rapid rainwater run-off have put tremendous strain on conventional storm water drainage systems designed many years ago. As a result sewers and culverts become overloaded during periods of heavy rain resulting in contamination of streams and rivers.

Heavy metals, hydrocarbons, rubber dust from vehicle tyres, silts and all matter of detritus are deposited on impermeable surfaces during dry weather. During periods of heavy rain these contaminants are transported into treatment works or directly into rivers and streams where they can cause severe environmental damage.

Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) are increasingly being used to prevent this run-off and flooding and as a method of collecting and cleaning storm water.

The Aquata Paver allows heavy rain to infiltrate through as a permeable clay block paved surface into a unique sub-base before being released in a controlled manner into sewers and water courses. If the underlying subgrade is suitable the water can be infiltrated directly into the subgrade. Water, having passed through the system, is cleaned by filtration and micro-bacterial action and can be stored and harvested for uses such as flushing toilets and watering soft landscaping.

The materials used for the bedding course and the roadbase of a permeable pavement allow water to be stored within the system and also impart strength to the pavement.

Material for the bedding course on which the Aquata is laid and the jointing material should comply with the grading requirements of a 2-6.3mm ‘single size’ aggregate as detailed in BS EN 13242 : 2002.

Coarse graded aggregate for the roadbase of a permeable pavement should comply with the grading requirements of a 4-20mm material as detailed in BS EN 13242 : 2002.