A "sealed surface" on a footpath (as refered to in the Design Guidance above) refers to a hard, water-resistant covering applied to the walking surface to make it smooth, durable, and protected from the elements. These surfaces are generally constructed from artificial, durable materials rather than natural earth or gravel.  In contrast, an "unsealed" surface refers to natural materials like gravel, soil, or grass.

Common examples of sealed surfaces include:

• Asphalt or Tarmac: Frequently used to create a uniform black surface, often laid for high-traffic or urban footways.

• Concrete: A rigid, durable surface used for heavily used walkways.

• Resin-Bound Surfacing: A smooth, continuous surface with no gaps, often used to improve safety and accessibility.

• Surface Dressing: A thin layer of bitumen and chippings applied to preserve the path and improve skid resistance. 

Purpose of Sealing a Footpath

• Waterproofing: It stops water from penetrating the underlying structure, which prevents cracks, potholes, and frost damage.

• Durability: It strengthens the path against erosion, general wear, and tear.

• Safety & Accessibility: It provides a smooth, stable surface suitable for pedestrians, wheelchairs, and pushchairs.

• Maintenance: It protects the surface from weed and moss growth. 

Is hoggin a sealed surface?  Hoggin is not considered a fully sealed or impermeable surface. It is a self-binding, semi-permeable material.  While hoggin (a mixture of clay, sand, and gravel) is designed to be compacted into a hard, stable, and durable surface that is much firmer than traditional loose gravel, it still allows water to drain through it. 

Key Characteristics of Hoggin Surfaces:

• Permeability: Because it is porous, it acts more like a "tough, stable sponge," allowing rainwater to filter through to the sub-base, which helps reduce surface runoff.

• Self-Binding: When compacted, the particles bind together to create a solid, level surface suitable for footpaths, driveways, and cycle paths.

• "Semi-Permeable": While generally permeable, if a hoggin path is extremely heavily compacted or improperly installed, it can become less porous, though it is still not considered fully "sealed" like asphalt or concrete. 

Therefore, hoggin is a sustainable, porous option often used for its natural appearance, rather than a sealed, impermeable surface.