The seafront accessibility path did not start well. Some sections had fared better than others, but even the best quickly broke up leaving large, loose pebbles across the path. It was only suitable for bikes with big tyres which – ironically – had no problem with the original terrain.
We’ve had discussions about the state of the path with Havant and we’re pleased to report it’s had a significant upgrade.
The large pebbles have gone and they’ve been replaced by a much smoother surface. That’s not only safer and more comfortable for bikes but also more suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and mobility scooters.
The new surface is the same as that used on the Billy Trail just south of the bridge. We have reservations about durability. It will be interesting to see how the surface fares over winter.
The area around the COPP memorial has also been upgraded and it looks like Havant has found a way to use some of the pebbles removed from the surface of the path…
Noticed this yesterday – massive improvement, not only for walkers, but also walkers! Peter Drury researched this material and it’s great on the Billy Trail – let’s hope that it is extended all the way to the theatre.
The only problem with it is that on the Billy Trail, horses damage it with their hooves. Not a problem on the Seafront, though!
HCC & HBC (The partners in the HB Heritage project) carried out a lot of research on footpaths with a good record for durability and a good top surface. This was the best material found and so far, has proven to live up to expectations.
This is the company we used for the material so you can read about if you wish. Hope it stands up to the test. I am told the longer it is most vulnerable in the early days, get over that and it should last. http://www.grundon.com/whatwedo/aggExOurProductsPGC.htm