THURROCK Council's Highways Team have been piloting the use of eco-friendly asphalt for road resurfacing on Church Road, West Tilbury.

Unlike the commonly used Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA), Warm Mix Asphalt (WMA) requires lower mixing and laying temperatures, reducing energy consumption and therefore resulting in less carbon dioxide, aerosols and vapour produced – overall having much less environmental impact.

WMA makes use of rubberised asphalt, which recycles old tyres, contributing to the circular economy.

Cabinet member for transport and highways, Cllr Ben Maney, says: "The use of Warm Mix Asphalt is not a requirement enforced on highways authorities.

"It is an eco-friendly alternative which complements our desire for a greener Thurrock.

"The pilot carried out on Church Road, West Tilbury, paves the way for how we can continue to keep the roads of Thurrock safe whilst protecting the environment – two concerns of residents.

"The Warm Mix Asphalt was no more expensive than the alternative options that we usually use.

"This is without a doubt a step in the right direction in building a greener and cleaner Thurrock."