Temporary roadway is a modular ground protection system, typically made from aluminium or heavy-duty plastic panels, designed to create safe, stable access for vehicles, machinery, and pedestrians across soft, uneven, or sensitive ground.

Temporary roadways are used when ground conditions cannot safely support traffic or where the surface needs to be protected from damage. Common scenarios include construction sites, utility works, events, renewable energy projects, and rail possessions.

Temporary roadways improve site safety, protect the environment, reduce ground reinstatement costs, allow all-weather access, and speed up project timelines by keeping vehicles and equipment moving in challenging conditions.

Unlike aggregate stone roads, they generate significantly lower CO₂ emissions, are faster and less costly to install, and require no reinstatement once the project is complete, leaving minimal impact on the surrounding land.

There are heavy-duty systems, such as aluminium panels and high-strength plastics like Dura-Base, designed for large plant and high loads, and light duty systems, like TerraGuard or Fast Cover Mats, for pedestrian routes, light vehicles, and events.

TPA are experts in temporary roadway systems and have been operating in the industry for over 20 years. If you are unsure what temporary roadway solution is suitable for your site, TPA offer free site surveys, advice, and hybrid solutions of both plastic and aluminium to suit any site challenges.

Load capacity depends on the system type and ground conditions. Heavy duty aluminium and Dura-Base panels can support cranes, SPMTs, and articulated lorries, while light duty systems are designed for lighter vehicles and foot traffic.

If you are unsure what temporary roadway solution is best for your site, our experts at TPA offer free advice and site surveys to determine the best temporary roadway for your project.

Heavy duty temporary roadway like aluminium panels and heavier plastics handle larger loads, offer higher durability, and are installed by specialist crews. Light-duty panels are lighter, quicker to deploy, and can often be self-installed for pedestrian and light vehicle access.

Yes. TPA’s temporary roadway solutions are designed with sustainability in mind. All plastic panels are manufactured from 100% recycled plastic and can be fully recycled at end-of-life. Temporary roadway minimises ground disturbance, reduces the need for aggregate or stone access roads, and generates significantly lower CO₂ emissions. Unlike aggregate stone roads, they are faster and more cost-effective to install, and require no reinstatement once the project is complete, leaving minimal impact on the surrounding land.

Heavy duty temporary roadway systems are installed by TPA's trained crews as a full-service solution using specialist lifting equipment.

TPA also offer lighter-duty plastic panels, which are available on a self-install basis and can be hand-laid without machinery. These panels are suitable for foot traffic and light vehicles, depending on ground conditions. Installation methods depend on the type of panels and site requirements.

There is no fixed limit. Temporary roadway can be left in place for months or even years if required, provided regular inspections are carried out. 

Costs vary depending on the type of system, length of hire, site conditions, and installation requirements. A free site survey or consultation is usually recommended to provide an accurate quotation.