OCL Regeneration played a key role in delivering a pioneering low-carbon highway improvement scheme on the A343 Andover Road in Newbury working in collaboration with VolkerHighways and West Berkshire Council. The project formed part of the Council’s wider commitment to reducing carbon emissions across its highway network while improving infrastructure that supports active travel and long-term sustainability. Delivered over approximately five weeks and valued at around £730,000 the scheme demonstrates how innovative materials and collaborative delivery can significantly reduce the environmental impact of highway works.
The primary objectives of the project were to reduce embodied and operational carbon, support West Berkshire Council’s net-zero ambitions and improve walking and cycling infrastructure along a key transport corridor. These goals were addressed through the careful selection of low-carbon construction methods and materials combined with forward-thinking design and supply chain collaboration.
The Solution
OCL Regeneration’s contribution focused on the supply of Foamix® M-LS, an innovative low-carbon material incorporating Manufactured Limestone (M-LS).
This material is produced through a process that reacts captured carbon dioxide with industrial residues, permanently mineralising the Co²e within the product. By embedding captured carbon into the highway construction process Foamix® M-LS actively contributes to carbon reduction rather than simply minimising emissions. The product was further enhanced through the use of recycled components supporting circular economy principles and reducing reliance on virgin aggregates.
Project Delivery
As part of the first phase of works a new cycleway and footway were constructed to encourage active travel and improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists. Foamix® was used within the pavement build-up where it supported the offsetting of carbon emissions associated with the other asphalt surfacing layers. The scheme also utilised a warm mix asphalt wearing course which required lower production temperatures than conventional hot mix asphalt resulting in reduced fuel consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions during manufacture and installation.
The Outcomes
Collectively the materials and methods employed across the project delivered an estimated carbon saving of more than 46 tonnes of Co²e equivalent to approximately 140,000 miles driven by an average car. The scheme illustrates how carbon savings can be achieved through both innovative materials such as Foamix® M-LS and incremental improvements to standard construction practices.
The Review
VolkerHighways highlighted the project as a strong example of how collaboration with specialist suppliers such as OCL Regeneration can enable meaningful carbon reductions while maintaining performance and cost efficiency. West Berkshire Council also recognised the value of innovation within its highway maintenance programme, demonstrating that sustainability objectives can be achieved alongside practical delivery requirements.
The A343 Andover Road scheme stands as a clear example of how OCL Regeneration’s low-carbon solutions can be successfully integrated into live highway projects to deliver measurable environmental benefits. Through the use of carbon-capturing materials, recycled content and collaborative working the project provides a model for future highway schemes seeking to balance infrastructure improvement with the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions.
‘The work on the A343, with our partners, once again highlights a combined ambition to do all we can to reduce our carbon footprint across the district. The changes in technology and processes to achieve this reduction of 46 tonnes is impressive and we hope to continue this great achievement on future projects.’
Councillor Richard Somner
Executive Member
2026 Revisited
After approximately four years, this shared footway / cycleway is performing well with no sign of weakness or failure in the structure. It is well used by pedestrians, dog walkers and cyclists to access the green spaces on the edge of Newbury – thus proving to be an important community asset, demonstrating durability and delivering value to the local residents and the client.
