A recessed block paving manhole cover and frame is designed specifically for outdoor driveways, pathways, and patios where block paving, cobbles, or slab paving is used. The top of the cover acts as a deep tray that holds the paving blocks, allowing the drainage access point to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscaped design.

Primary Uses & Key Features

• Driveways & Patios: Installed over outdoor drainage, sewage, or inspection chambers where block paving is the chosen surface.

• Aesthetic Concealment: The deep recessed tray (typically 80mm to 100mm deep) allows standard paving blocks and sand/mortar beds to sit inside the cover, making the chamber virtually invisible except for a thin metal border.

• Structural Support: Built to withstand vehicle traffic (driveways) or heavy pedestrian traffic without cracking or shifting the surrounding block work.

• Easy Access: Features built-in lifting keyholes so utility lines and drains can be accessed without disrupting or pulling up the surrounding driveway blocks.

Available for collection from our Rugby branch or local delivery using our own fleet.

Delivery is kerbside and the final offloading position is always subject to safe access and the driver’s discretion.

Please tell us before delivery about:

• Narrow roads or restricted entrances
• Parked vehicles or limited turning space
• Overhead cables, trees or other obstructions
• Soft, sloping or unsuitable ground
• Any other access concerns

Enter your postcode on the product page to check your delivery area. We’ll confirm the delivery date after your order is placed.

How do you prevent the blocks inside the tray from coming loose?

Blocks inside the tray must be laid on a solid mortar bed or a compacted semi-dry sand and cement mix rather than loose sand. Once the blocks are set, the joints are swept with kiln-dried sand or filled with jointing compound to lock them tightly in place.

Will water collect inside the tray and freeze?

Our block paving recessed covers include built-in drainage holes or weep holes in the base of the tray. This allows rainwater filtering down through the sand/mortar joints inside the tray to drain out into the inspection chamber, preventing waterlogging and frost damage.

How do you lift a heavy block-paved manhole cover?

Because a tray filled with blocks and mortar can weigh over 50kg, the frame features integrated lifting keyholes exposed at the corners. Metal lifting keys screw or latch into these keyholes, allowing two people or a mechanical cover lifter to pull the tray up safely.