The Project
Project Aim and Challenges
The primary objective of this project was the complete replacement of a failing 350 linear metre timber boardwalk along the Exe Estuary Trail, a vital and high-traffic commuter route for cyclists and pedestrians. The original timber structure had reached the end of its functional life after just 10–15 years, having suffered severe degradation due to its direct proximity to the sea and frequent exposure to tidal flooding.
Beyond the structural failure, the boardwalk’s anti-slip surface had significantly eroded, creating a critical health and safety risk for the thousands of annual users. As the site is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Devon County Council required a solution that was not only exceptionally durable and slip-resistant but also visually sympathetic to the natural landscape and capable of withstanding a harsh, saline environment without further maintenance.
The Project
The Outcome
Polydeck delivered a comprehensive solution, managing the entire programme of works from the initial design and provision of Approval in Principle (AIP) calculations to the final installation. This involved the removal and disposal of the decayed timber followed by the installation of 53 seamlessly connected POLYbridges™, forming a robust 350m span. The 3m-wide deck was specifically engineered to accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians, featuring a 1.8m high parapet with infill bars for enhanced child safety.
The GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction ensures the structure is immune to rot and corrosion, allowing for tidal flooding to occur underneath without compromising the bridge’s integrity. This installation provides a 75-year low maintenance design life, ensuring the commuter route remains open and safe for decades to come. Furthermore, the project represented a significant environmental victory, successfully diverting over 997,000 500ml PET plastic bottles from landfill, perfectly aligning with the ecological preservation goals of the surrounding SSSI.
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