BYPASS TOES THE LIME

This article concerns the construction of a bypass in East Sussex, southern England. The project consists of a new dual carriageway and a further widening of existing roads: also included are four bridges, two retaining walls, an underpass and four roundabouts. It is being constructed through a greenfield site under standard Highways Agency conditions of contract, with a post contract partnering agreement. A lime cement stabilisation technique is to be used: the ground clay is trimmed to the top of the sub-base level, the top is pulverised and lime added, resulting in a consistent material which is rolled, sealed and left for 24 hours: a second addition of cement and water is placed, the area is graded and compacted and sealed with a bitumen-based emulsion. Cracking was controlled by use of the correct water content. Using materials available on site reduced vehicle movements and therefore costs.