Plugged In: A Modest Idea With Outsized Impact

ACO launches a reusable inlet plug for KerbDrain as builders seek to cut cleanup costs and meet tighter sustainability rules

4 Apr 2025

ACO Technologies has introduced a reusable inlet plug for its KerbDrain system, aiming to reduce cleanup costs and environmental impact during road construction across Europe.

The plug is designed to be fitted into drainage inlets before road surfacing begins, preventing dust, asphalt and other debris from entering stormwater systems. Construction debris is a common cause of blocked drains, often requiring post-installation jetting that is both costly and water-intensive.

By sealing the inlet during works, the plug allows contractors to keep drainage channels clear from the outset, reducing delays and avoiding the need for additional maintenance once surfacing is complete. The company said the product was developed in response to growing pressure on builders to deliver projects more efficiently while meeting sustainability targets.

On a recent infrastructure project in Oxfordshire, contractors avoided post-installation jetting entirely, generating cost savings and shortening completion times, according to people involved in the works. The plug is made from recyclable materials and is intended to be reused across multiple sites, lowering waste and equipment costs over time.

The launch reflects a wider shift in European infrastructure towards preventative design rather than reactive maintenance. As heavier rainfall events place greater strain on drainage systems, public authorities are increasingly focused on keeping stormwater infrastructure functional during construction as well as after completion.

At the same time, procurement rules are tightening. Public tenders across the EU are placing greater weight on products that reduce water use, limit waste and align with environmental targets, particularly for road and urban development projects.

Some engineers have called for broader testing of the plug across different climates and construction conditions. However, early uptake suggests demand for practical, low-cost solutions that integrate with existing drainage systems.

While large-scale drainage upgrades continue to dominate infrastructure spending, smaller interventions are attracting attention for their ability to deliver measurable gains. For contractors facing rising costs and stricter environmental standards, reusable components that prevent problems before they arise are becoming harder to ignore.