This timber footbridge gives guests at a Rutland glamping site safe access across a watercourse. Bison supplied and installed a 12-metre bridge combining a galvanised steel structure with natural timber decking and Douglas Fir parapets, so it suits a rural holiday setting.
Project at a glance
Client: Farm Glamping Site
Location: Rutland
Span: 12.0 m
Deck width: 1200 mm
Structure: hot-dip galvanised steel beams
Deck: timber deck boards with dual non-slip infill strips
Parapets: Douglas Fir
Service: Supply and installation
The challenge: safe guest access across a watercourse
Because the bridge would be used by holidaymakers in all weathers and after dark, grip underfoot and sturdy parapets were essential. The owners also wanted a bridge that would look at home in the countryside rather than an industrial structure.
The solution: a steel-framed timber footbridge
Bison specified a 12-metre [Bison Bridge model, linked to the product page] with Douglas Fir parapets, so the bridge blends in with the surrounding landscape. Each timber deck board has two non-slip infill strips, which give guests secure footing in wet and icy conditions.
Underneath, the bridge sits on hot-dip galvanised steel structural beams, as all Bison bridges do. Steel beams last considerably longer than timber ones, so the owner avoids an early and costly beam replacement and the bridge costs less over its lifetime.
Installation
The bridge was delivered to site in kit form with all components cut to length. Our team of 2 took 2 days to cast the abutments and assemble the Bison bridge kit.
Footbridges for holiday parks, glamping and leisure sites
Holiday parks, campsites and glamping businesses often need to connect pitches, facilities and walking routes across streams, ditches and wet ground. A Bison footbridge can be specified with timber or recycled plastic finishes to suit the setting. Every option shares the same long-lasting galvanised steel structure.
Related case study: Kirby Muxloe Parish Council bridge installation
FAQs
- What span can a Bison footbridge cover? From 3.0metres to 16.0metres. This Rutland bridge spans 12 metres.
- Is a timber deck slippery when wet? Bison timber deck boards include dual non-slip infill strips to give a secure surface in all weather conditions.
- Why use galvanised steel beams instead of timber? Hot-dip galvanised steel beams last far longer than timber beams, which reduces maintenance and lowers the whole-life cost of the bridge considerably.
- Can I choose the parapet finish? Yes, we offer softwood, hardwood and recycled plastic parapets, in either standard rail design or as vertical infill panels.
- How much maintenance does a timber footbridge need? The galvanised steel beams need very little upkeep. The timber deck and parapets benefit from a periodic inspection and clearing of debris (build up of leaves) to keep the non-slip strips working well.
Planning a crossing for your site? Request a quote here
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