WJ has successfully delivered a package of road marking and safety improvements on the A30 between Roseworthy and Hayle in Cornwall, working on behalf of National Highways.
The works followed a full resurfacing of this busy section of the strategic road network, creating a good opportunity to use long-life materials that would complement the new surface, reduce future maintenance needs and deliver whole life cost value.
The main longitudinal markings for the scheme, including the edge and centre line, were completed in WJ’s Weatherline Ultra road marking system, which uses very high-performance glass beads for enhanced retro-reflectivity.
This road marking solution is a Type 2 system which is designed to have enhanced wet night properties, with a profiled dotted pattern where the raised dots sit slightly above any surface water, helping to return light back to the driver instead of it being lost in standing water.
The profile also gives drivers a subtle audible and sensory warning when they cross the line, which is especially useful on a high-speed, largely unlit route such as the A30.
Hand-applied work, such as symbols and localised details, were completed in MMA, reflecting its durability, with cold-applied high-friction surfacing also used in locations requiring enhanced skid resistance.
To further support lane guidance and visibility, particularly at night and in poor weather, WJ installed 2,420 Allux road studs along the route. These studs are manufactured in the UK from high-pressure die-cast marine-grade recycled aluminium and designed for long service life on heavily trafficked roads.
A stabilising shaft and secure lens system help keep the studs in place, while the 32mm borehole minimises the amount of pavement that has to be removed, reducing the risk of future defects around the fixing point.
However, persistent wet weather during the works did affect some of the planned MMA handwork. In response, WJ worked with National Highways to review the products being used and recommended the most suitable alternatives for the conditions, helping to keep the programme on track while maintaining the required
performance.
Across the Roseworthy to Hayle dual section, WJ installed approximately 22,000 metres of Weatherline Ultra along the carriageway’s edge and centre lines. The system provides high levels of retro-reflectivity, with initial dry-night values consistently above 500 mcd/lx/m², daytime performance at Q4 and wet-night values above 75 mcd/lx/m².
(Picture: WJ Group)
