Milton Keynes Cycle Path

Flood-Resilient Active Travel Infrastructure Using Rosehill Drainage Mats

Project Overview

A key section of the National Cycle Network (Route 6) between Castlethorpe and Milton Keynes had become frequently impassable due to winter flooding, creating a serious accessibility issue for commuters, families, and disabled users. In partnership with Civil Water Management Ltd and Milton Keynes City Council, 1m² Rosehill Drainage Mats were laid along the length of the cycle path, topped with gravel and then finished with asphalt. The mats channel water laterally to the path edge, where RDS Grip Drains discharge it onto the adjacent field—delivering a climate-resilient, low-carbon, no-dig solution that's now being scaled nationally.

The Challenge

Chronic flooding on a key active travel route making it frequently impassable
Poor accessibility for disabled users and families with children
Conventional solutions unsuitable due to nearby railway line, shallow services, and protected badger habitats
High community impact, with path frequently avoided during winter months

The Solution

1m² Rosehill Drainage Mats laid along the full 200m cycle path, topped with gravel and finished with asphalt
RDS Grip Drains positioned at the path edge to discharge collected water onto the adjacent field
No-dig installation minimised disruption and protected surrounding ecology, including nearby badger habitats
Modular components followed curved terrain and adjusted to shallow service constraints
Design approved for full 2.5km route upgrade; 1km extension completed in June 2025

Flooding events
through winter 2024

50%

Carbon reduction vs
traditional systems

~19%

Cost saving vs
conventional methods

£3.16m

Social value projected
over 10 years

Results

Zero flooding reported throughout winter 2024, validated by continuous monitoring
Up to 50% carbon reduction compared with traditional pipe-and-gravel systems
~19% cost saving vs conventional installation methods
£3.16m social value projected over 10 years for full route, including health, accessibility, and travel benefits

The path was in a dreadful state. After heavy rains, water was standing for a long time. A tough mountain biker might get through, but most people were put off using it. The local community were keen to find a solution.

Nigel Brigham

Senior Engineer, Walk Wheel Cycle Trust