Duradrain delivers long-term drainage for Histon Road scheme
The Greater Cambridge Partnership’s Histon Road improvement scheme has transformed one of Cambridge’s busiest areas into a safer, more sustainable route for residents, cyclists, bus users and pedestrians alike.
The scheme introduced dedicated bus lanes, widened footways, and new cycle infrastructure as part of a wider strategy to improve sustainable transport links into and out of Cambridge.
Duraproducts supported the project through the supply of over 1.5km of Duradrain combined kerb and drainage systems across varying carriageway and cycle lane profiles.
A reliable solution that meets all needs
Due to heavily trafficked carriageways, cycle lanes, bus routes and pedestrian areas, Histon Road required a multifaceted and reliable drainage solution. The system needed to provide effective surface water management during intense rainfall events while maintaining safety for all users and ensuring flow across multiple transport modes.
Duradrain was selected for the scheme due to its strong structural performance and proven ability to withstand heavy, repeated loading in urban settings. Its low-maintenance design makes it well suited to areas where ongoing access is limited, while its installation flexibility allows it to be integrated seamlessly across varied surfaces and constraints. This combination of durability, efficiency and adaptability made it an effective solution for the demands of Histon Road.
Delivering sustainable drainage innovation
Duraproducts worked closely with project delivery partners to support the successful delivery of the Histon Road improvement scheme. The drainage system was installed by Breheny, with product supply provided through Hauraton UK, helping to ensure the project team could meet the demanding design and performance requirements of the scheme.
The installation incorporated multiple Duradrain profiles to accommodate transitions between carriageway levels, cycle infrastructure, and pedestrian zones while ensuring safe and efficient surface water management.
The Greater Cambridge Partnership noted that daily journeys had been significantly transformed by the Histon Road improvements, delivering a more cohesive and user-friendly transport environment. The completed works have helped create safer, more accessible infrastructure for all road users including cyclists,
pedestrians and buses.
Community confidence two years on
Two years after opening, the Histon Road project continued to receive positive feedback from residents, councillors, and regular users of the route, reflecting the lasting impact of the improvements delivered along this key transport route.
Residents described the route as noticeably safer, more accessible, and significantly easier to navigate, particularly for those travelling on foot or by bicycle. Local councillors also highlighted the scheme’s wider benefits, praising its contribution to promoting healthier travel choices and improving overall road safety. The scheme was overall seen as a positive step toward a more inclusive, safer, and better-connected transport network for the area.
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