The Project
Location
This public right of way serves Footpath 5, Brancaster. This is part of the National Trail Peddars Way situated on the Norfolk Coast Path and soon to be part of the new King Charles III England Coast Path.
Brancaster Footpath 5 is situated within several designated and protected landscapes of ecological importance where this scheme has potential for impact on these statutory sites. These include.
- Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)
- Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI)
- North Norfolk Coast SAC (Special Area of Conservation) UK0019838
- North Norfolk SPA (Special Protection Area) UK9009031
- North Norfolk Coast Ramsar (RAMSAR UK11048)
- Greater Wash SPA and The Wash & North Norfolk Coast SAC (within 50m of the site).
Brief
The current boardwalk was closed due to health and safety concerns over its rapidly deteriorating condition. After replacing an earlier Timber boardwalk that had lasted 20 years, the current Timber boardwalk had failed in less than 12 years. Timber boardwalk lifespans tend to fail around 10-12yrs.
A new and improved boardwalk was required for compliance with the Equality Act 2010 – something that the old structure did not provide.
The outcome
The 1.7km x 1.5m wide POLYwalk was designed to ensure safe accessibility and inclusivity for all. Norfolk County Council’s accessibility guidelines were achieved through the POLYwalk’s width, high anti-slip rating (SRV 90+) castellated decking, colour and contrast in the materials, a consistent layout and frequent passing places, viewing points and seating. A light and dark wood timber effect finish was provided to create an incredible life-like wood appearance blending in perfectly with the natural environment.
Furthermore, due to Polydeck’s unique recycled plastic foam core, the project removed 370,00 500ml plastic bottles from landfill, helping Norfolk CC meet net zero ’30 targets. The Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) gives the POLYwalk design life of 75 years.
Full scope of works
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