Changes to the British Standard for paving design
Between 2001 and 2010, a 12-part series of standards associated with BS 7533 was developed to cover the structural design, construction, and maintenance of pavements using modular paving units.
Many Association members will be familiar with this series of documents; the document was frequently used by industry specifiers.
As time passed, this large number of documents was reported to cause some confusion among designers and installers. As a resolution, BS 7533-101 is the first in a series of revised standards. BS 7533-101 consolidates the previous parts 1, 2, 8, 10, and 12 into one code of practice covering the structural design of pavements. It also partially supersedes parts 6 and 7.
BS 7533-101 provides guidance and recommendations on the structural design of pavements surfaced with:
- Concrete paving blocks
- Concrete paving flags
- Natural stone slabs
- Natural stone setts
- Clay pavers
Earlier this year a webinar was held for all stakeholders, which aimed to explain how BS7533 is evolving. This webinar, together with presentation slides is available as a free download.
Whilst BS 7533-101 specifically covers design aspects, BS 7533-102 will be launched in the future and will provide guidance on installation. This will replace BS 7533-3, BS 7533-4, BS 7533-7 and BS 7533-11.
