Macadam and Asphalt Sustainability

Colour Meets Performance: Roadstone’s Red SMA Cycle Path in Belfast

As part of a broader initiative to enhance urban cycling infrastructure, a new coloured cycle path was commissioned in Belfast. The goal was to create a visually striking and durable red surface that would clearly demarcate the cycle lane while withstanding the demands of a high-traffic environment.

Ultracolour red cycle path
Challenge

The primary challenge was to deliver a vibrant red Stone Mastic Asphalt (SMA) that met both aesthetic and performance requirements. 

The material needed to retain its workability and consistency after being transported over 200 km—a journey of nearly three hours—from Roadstone’s Allen Ultracolour manufacturing facility to the installation site in Belfast. Ensuring the material remained in optimal condition for precise laying after such a long haul was critical to the project’s success.

Solution

Roadstone developed a high-performance red coloured SMA mixture tailored for this application. The mix featured:

  • A clear binder for enhanced pigment visibility
  • Red aggregates for colour longevity
  • A superior red pigment to achieve a bold, long-lasting colour

This carefully engineered combination delivered a smooth, vibrant surface that met both visual and functional expectations. Thanks to Roadstone’s design expertise, the material maintained excellent workability and was laid with precision and consistency, even after the extended transport time.

Result

The project was a success, with the red cycle path in Belfast now serving as a highly visible, durable, and safe route for cyclists. The installation demonstrated the versatility and reliability of Roadstone’s Ultracolour asphalt range, even under challenging logistical conditions. 

This project is part of Roadstone’s ongoing commitment to innovative coloured surfacing solutions. From Cork to Belfast, Ultracolour asphalt is being used to transform public spaces, and Roadstone continues to collaborate with customers and stakeholders to expand its use nationwide.

  • red cycle path from the sky
    Red cycle path paved with Ultracolour
  • Red cycle path closeup
    Ultracolour Red cycle path closeup
  • Cyclist on cycle path in red colour
    Cyclist on Ultracolour cycle path in red
  • red cycle path from the sky
  • Red cycle path closeup
  • Cyclist on cycle path in red colour