CONCRETE BLOCK PAVING (CBP)

This article discusses some of the uses and applications of concrete block paving (cbp), with special reference to South Africa. Cbp's use has increased steadily since the late 1940s, and about 300 million sqm of cbp are now laid annually worldwide, including 110 million sqm in Germany and 6 million sqm in South Africa. South Africa is now a major producer of cbp, and a leader in its technology. Cbp is now extensively used in: (1) footways and pathways; (2) residential roads; (3) parking areas; (4) harbours; and (5) taxiways and aprons at airports. Labour-based construction of roads using cbp has been used extensively in Colombia for the last 18 years for ongoing, sustainable urban road projects. South Africa can learn the following lessons from the Colombian experience: (1) projects should be part of a works programme; and (2) communities should contribute to their local projects. Several labour-based road projects using cbp have been completed successfully in South Africa. Important experience has been gained, and lessons have been learned, which could help the following aspects of future projects and contracts: (1) project cost; (2) manufacture of blocks; (3) community involvement; (4) training; (5) construction sequence; (6) consultant involvement; and (7) sustainability and continuity.