Hydromedia®
Pervious & Permeable Concrete
Holcim UK’s Advanced Permeable Concrete for Sustainable Urban Drainage
Hydromedia® is a high-performance, fast-draining concrete pavement solution designed by Holcim UK to rapidly direct stormwater away from surfaces and back into the natural water cycle. As a robust wearing surface, it effectively mitigates the risk of downstream flooding and surface ponding, making it an essential component of modern Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SuDS). By combining high permeability with structural integrity, Hydromedia® offers a sustainable, low-maintenance alternative to traditional drainage, eliminating the need for expensive ironwork and retention ponds while providing a decorative, functional finish for any architectural project.
benefits
Why Hydromedia®
Hydromedia® offers a unique combination of high permeability and durability, supporting loads for pedestrian use and light goods vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes. Its advanced formulation allows it to function as a standalone wearing surface or as a structural underlayer for block paving, providing versatility across diverse construction sectors.
The system is engineered for maximum efficiency; when designed with a specialized sub-base to contain typically 15% – 35% voids, water flows freely through the matrix, significantly reducing the risk of downstream flooding. Beyond its functional excellence, Hydromedia® enhances safety by reducing glare from wet pavements and preventing hydroplaning. Available in a variety of integral colours, it allows designers to achieve high visual appeal without compromising on performance. Holcim UK ensures that Hydromedia® is 100% recyclable, supporting circular construction and reducing the environmental footprint of urban infrastructure.
specification
Specification Detail | Value |
| Product Type | High Permeability Fast Draining Concrete |
| Flow Rate | Approximately 600 litres/m²/min |
| Compressive Strength | 10 - 15 N/mm² |
| Working Time | Approximately 90 minutes |
| Voidage | 15 - 35% (depending on aggregate grading and placement) |
| Sustainability | 100% recyclable and supports SuDS compliance. |