Decorative coloured asphalt for busy tourist venue

This high profile tourist attraction in Bishop Auckland, near Durham required a surface for the large pedestrian area next to its main arena. The site, below Auckland Castle, with an 8,000-seater grandstand was created to stage outdoor historical theater productions. The visual appearance needed to fit the historic character of the site. It also needed to be durable enough to withstand the large volumes of visitors that were expected and to be used by site vehicles.

After considering a number of alternative surfacing solutions, 6mm ULTICOLOUR Buff was chosen by the client. ULTICOLOUR is a range of coloured asphalts that combine a clear polymer modified binder, a pigment and colour matched aggregates. This produces bright colours and a longer lasting finish that resists surface wear and keeps its appearance for longer. ULTICOLOUR is laid quickly using conventional paving equipment, meaning this large area could be completed on schedule. It has a proven record of long term performance in a range of environments including on roads, footpaths, driveways and commercial sites.

As planned, 150 tonnes of 6mm ULTICOLOUR Buff was successfully laid in late June 2016 by the surfacing contractor Rainton Construction. Tarmac’s experienced technical staff were available throughout, to ensure that the contractor had the guidance and support that they needed. The chosen buff colour fitted well with the surrounding wooden structures and the theme of the site. The client was happy with the speed of the work and the smooth, even finish. ULTICOLOUR provides a safe, trip free surface, and avoids the maintenance issues that can occur due to movement and weed growth in block pavements.