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Timely Delivery of High-Friction Surfacing for School Safety
Ahead of the start of the new academic year, Jointline’s Highways division successfully delivered a targeted safety improvement scheme across three schools in Nottinghamshire. The project involved the installation of 400 square metres of Type 1 hot-applied high-friction surfacing, combined with the application of all associated road markings. These enhancements were designed to increase vehicle traction and provide clearer road guidance in areas of high pedestrian activity, ultimately supporting safer journeys for pupils, school staff, and parents.
The scheme was carefully planned and executed during a scheduled road closure, timed to coincide with the summer break to minimise disruption. The completion of the works on the final day of the closure ensured that the resurfaced carriageways were fully operational and compliant with safety standards in time for the return of the school community.
This project presented a number of logistical and operational challenges. Most critically, the work had to be completed within a fixed timeframe tied to a pre-arranged road closure. Delays beyond this period were not permissible, as the route served as a key access point for three schools and would soon experience a sharp increase in traffic with the start of the school term.
Additionally, the surfacing and road marking elements needed to be installed with precision to meet national safety standards. High-friction surfacing, in particular, requires careful temperature control and specialist application to ensure durability and performance, especially in high-use environments such as school zones.
Coordinating plant, materials, and personnel within the narrow delivery window added further complexity, particularly with the inclusion of new trainees on site. This demanded strong oversight and close collaboration among team members to maintain both pace and quality of work.
To meet the project demands, Jointline deployed an experienced highways crew supported by newer team members undergoing supervised training. The site was led by a dedicated contracts manager who ensured that planning, safety, and quality control procedures were strictly followed throughout the works.
The team carried out the installation of 400 m² of Type 1 hot-applied high-friction surfacing. This material was selected for its proven ability to enhance skid resistance, particularly in areas with a high concentration of vulnerable road users. The surfacing was applied with precision to ensure uniformity and longevity.
Following the surfacing installation, all necessary road markings were reinstated using thermoplastic material for visibility and durability. These included give-way lines, pedestrian crossing approaches, and speed advisory markings, aligned with the layout and access requirements of each school zone.
Despite the tight deadline, the entire programme was completed within the planned road closure period, with no disruption to the reopening of the schools.
The successful delivery of this scheme provided immediate and long-term safety benefits to the communities surrounding the three Nottinghamshire schools. The newly installed high-friction surfacing offers improved grip for vehicles, especially under wet conditions, reducing the likelihood of skidding and enhancing braking efficiency. This is particularly important in school zones, where unpredictable pedestrian movements and congestion can increase the risk of accidents.
In addition to the safety improvements, the project showcased Jointline’s ability to plan and execute high-pressure works to a strict deadline, without compromising on quality. The involvement of new trainees in a live operational setting also reflects the company’s ongoing investment in workforce development, ensuring skills transfer and succession within the industry.
By completing the works on time and to specification, Jointline enabled the local authority to reopen the roads as planned, maintaining public confidence and ensuring a safe return to school for hundreds of pupils and staff.
