Rosehill Drainage
Case Study
Drainage Mats
Drainage mat installation at Newsham Park, Liverpool
United Kingdom

Liverpool
Newsham Park

Live Labs 2 — Climate-Resilient Path Upgrade

Client Liverpool City Council — Live Labs 2
Contractor DOWHIGH Ltd
Product Drainage Mats + Grip Drain

Challenge

A flood-prone pedestrian and cycle route near Newsham Park had become unusable in wet weather, cutting off a vital off-road connection used by local residents, schoolchildren and commuters. The path sits within a Conservation Area, ruling out deep trench or pipe-based drainage systems. High footfall and the need for minimal disruption demanded a solution that could be installed quickly — even under adverse weather conditions.

Solution

Rosehill Drainage Mats were installed beneath gravel surfacing to absorb and disperse surface water across the affected path. An Grip Drain channel was incorporated to direct collected water into an existing outfall, eliminating the need for major trenching or pipework. The modular system was laid rapidly on site by DOWHIGH Ltd, with a filtration layer added to protect drainage function and extend system lifespan — all delivered during persistent rainfall, including Storm Chandra.

100% flood elimination through the first full winter post-installation

Result

The upgraded route now provides year-round, flood-free access for surrounding neighbourhoods including Anfield, Fairfield, Tuebrook and Kensington. No pooling has been observed since installation, and early community feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The project demonstrates a scalable, low-carbon approach to sustainable urban drainage that supports Liverpool's citywide active travel and climate resilience goals.

Project Highlights
  • Live Labs 2 climate resilience programme
  • 90% recycled rubber drainage mats
  • Grip Drain integrated outfall
  • No major trenching or pipework
  • Conservation Area compliant
  • Installed during Storm Chandra conditions
Waterlogged site conditions before drainage installation at Newsham Park
Site conditions before installation
Grip Drain channel being installed on the path
Grip Drain being installed
Completed drainage mat installation covered with gravel surfacing
Completed installation with gravel surfacing