Towpath Resurfacing
From gravel to tarmac. We’ve got it covered.
Towpath resurfacing solutions for heritage routes, remote sites, and busy walking routes.
Access and Utilities Services
Our Specialist Towpath Resurfacing Services
Towpaths are no longer just for boats – they’re much-loved walking and cycling routes. People rely on these paths for recreation, travelling to work, or just getting around. The Rothen Group provides towpath resurfacing solutions that are hardwearing, low-maintenance, and built for both heritage and high footfall areas.
We install durable towpaths using Breedon gravel, tarmac, and resin-bound finishes — suitable for both small repairs and full resurfacing projects. We match the surface to the location, usage demands, and environmental considerations.
Many towpaths run through narrow or difficult-to-access areas. Using floating plant, we transport materials in and out with minimal disruption — leaving behind a clean, durable finish and a safer, more accessible route for the public.
Planning a towpath resurfacing or repair project? Get in touch with The Rothen Group for expert guidance and a no-obligation site visit.
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FEATURED CASE STUDY
Habitat Creation Coney Meadows, Droitwich
Coney Meadows is part of a nationwide project to restore the UK’s wetlands. Since the 17th century, large areas of reedbeds have been stripped and converted into agricultural land, massively reducing the number of habitats available for wetland animals.
FEATURED CASE STUDY
Changing the Shape of the River Derwent, Derby
Following the storm seasons of 2023 & 2024, the EA set out to review its impact on the UK’s waterways. The River Derwent in Derby was flagged after a sonar scan of its navigation identified a scour hole – a direct result of heavy rainfall pushing sediment downstream.
A towpath is a path that runs adjacent to a canal or river. Originally, horses used the towpath as they pulled barges and other boats between places. Today, they’re a popular route for walkers, cyclists, boaters, and maintenance teams. They’re how we get around our waterways when we’re not in a boat.
What is a towpath?
Towpath resurfacing is the process of repairing or replacing canal-side walking and cycling paths. It restores worn or damaged surfaces to keep routes safe, accessible, and durable under regular use.
As you might imagine, towpaths see substantial footfall every year. Millions of people walk along towpaths to get to work or for recreation. However, these paths can erode, becoming dangerous or worn out. Replacing these surfaces is an essential part of routine maintenance for a waterway.
What is towpath resurfacing?
We install Breedon gravel towpaths, tarmac towpaths, and resin-bound finishes. Each surface type is selected based on expected footfall, drainage needs, and the aesthetic of the surrounding waterway.
For example, we wouldn’t use a tarmac towpath in a rural or semi-rural setting. Such paths require constant upkeep — a gravel path is preferred. In contrast, near marinas and other commonly used areas, a tarmac towpath is perfect.
What materials do you use for towpath surfacing?
Yes. We specialise in environmentally sensitive towpath works, using floating plant to deliver resurfacing projects where land access isn’t possible — with minimal disruption to the environment.
We operate a number of floating machinery and barges that can transport material, remove old material, and install an entirely new path. This helps us reach distant locations in the UK’s canal network.
Do you resurface towpaths in hard-to-reach areas?
Of course. We offer both towpath access improvements and full towpath installation services, including widening and resurfacing in line with usage and safety requirements.
Often, a towpath installation is combined with other services. For example, if a bank is slipping onto the towpath, we can add a retaining wall while resurfacing the towpath. This provides a lasting solution that the public can enjoy for years to come.
Can you handle full towpath installation and upgrades?
Yes. In addition to larger projects, we complete smaller-scale towpath repairs, patching damaged sections, improving drainage, and restoring uneven surfaces.
Towpaths experience significant wear and tear. A bad case of frost can degrade the tarmac, causing major problems for cyclists and pedestrians. That’s why we’re always available for timely repairs — even in hard-to-reach locations.
Do you carry out small towpath repairs as well?
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The Rothen Group
The Rothen Group delivers specialist maintenance and construction services across the UK’s inland waterways. From towpath surfacing services to structural works and vegetation management, we support the long-term accessibility and resilience of the canal network.
We’ve completed towpath upgrades for cyclists and walkers, towpath access improvements, and full resurfacing projects in both urban and remote environments. Using the right tools — including floating plant and purpose-built machinery — we carry out works efficiently and with minimal impact on the surroundings.
