Bridleway Bridges

Bridleway Bridge Specifications

Timber vs Recycled Plastic Decking

Both deck options meet and exceed the 7.0 kN bridleway loading standard. Pressure-treated Redwood timber offers a traditional aesthetic well suited to rural and estate settings. Re-Life Recycled Plastic decking is naturally slip-resistant, maintenance-free and manufactured from 100% post-consumer waste, making it the preferred choice for long-term, low-maintenance bridleway installations.

Pricing

Timber bridleway bridge kits start from £2,510 plus delivery and VAT. Recycled plastic deck options start from £2,863 plus delivery and VAT. The final cost depends on span length, deck width, material choice and delivery location. Use the bridge tool below or call us on 01530 242 405 for an accurate quotation.

What to Consider When Specifying a Bridleway Bridge

When specifying a bridleway bridge for a Public Right of Way, estate crossing or Countryside Stewardship project, three factors are most critical: structural loading, deck surface grip, and installation method.

Bridleway bridges must meet a minimum point loading of 7.0 kN — the weight equivalent of a horse and rider — as defined by Countryside Stewardship grant requirements and Natural England access improvement guidelines. Both Bison timber and recycled plastic deck options exceed this requirement.

For remote or restricted-access sites, the kit supply format is a key advantage: all components are pre-drilled and can be carried in manually, then bolted together on site without specialist equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a pedestrian bridge and a bridleway bridge?

Pedestrian bridges are designed for a crowd loading of 5.0 kN/m². Bridleway bridges must achieve a minimum point loading of 7.0 kN to safely support the concentrated weight of a horse and rider. Bridleway bridges also typically feature wider decks and stouter parapets to accommodate equestrian use.

What load rating does a bridleway bridge need?

A minimum point loading of 7.0 kN is required for bridleway use. Bison bridleway bridges exceed this requirement with both deck options: 70mm Redwood timber and 60mm recycled plastic both surpass the 7.0 kN standard.

Which is better — timber or recycled plastic decking for a bridleway bridge?

Both options exceed the structural loading requirement. Pressure-treated Redwood timber suits traditional rural aesthetics. Recycled plastic decking is naturally anti-slip, requires zero maintenance, and has a longer service life — making it increasingly the preferred choice for new bridleway installations.

How much does a bridleway bridge cost?

Timber bridleway bridge kits start from £2,510 plus delivery and VAT; recycled plastic kits from £2,863 plus delivery and VAT. The exact cost depends on span, width, deck material and delivery location. Contact us with your requirements for a precise quotation.

Are Bison bridleway bridges suitable for Countryside Stewardship projects?

Yes. Bison bridleway bridges comply with the structural and access requirements for Countryside Stewardship-funded projects and Natural England access improvement schemes. We can provide specifications, structural drawings, and design certificates to support grant applications.

How are bridleway bridges installed?

Bison bridleway bridges are supplied in kit form — all components are pre-drilled and bolt together on site. This is particularly useful for remote locations where vehicle access is limited, as components can be carried in manually. We can recommend approved installers across most of the UK for a full supply-and-install service.

What spans are available?

Bison bridleway bridges are available in a range of standard spans to suit most crossings. Use our bridge tool to specify your required length and width, or call 01530 242 405 to discuss your project requirements.