Viewing platform made from Recycled Plastic

A Grade II listed problem

Hatchlands Park is 430 acres of land in East Clandon, Surrey, consisting of a Grade I listed country house and Grade II listed gardens. The land boasts breath-taking views and sustainable wildlife habitats, as well as one of the finest bluebell woods in the area.

Over the years Hatchlands' bluebells have become a popular feature of the Park in their own right, with as many as 2,000 people a day heading for 'Little Wix Wood' in the months when the flowers are in bloom. Because of this the flowers themselves would often be trampled or damaged within just a few weeks.

To avoid this, Park and Garden Manager Sue Streeter came to us with an idea.

An eco-friendly solution
The brief was for a viewing platform which would not only save the bluebells from those who strayed from the path, but also provide the ideal photo opportunity spot.

Using an existing boardwalk design, we built a half moon recycled plastic, eco-friendly platform with an obvious lip lining the curved sides. This lip offers an 'end' to the platform which acts as a subtle deterrent for straying feet which is less obtrusive than a sign or fence. Non-slip flooring added a level of safety suitable for all weather.

Speaking after the project, Sue said, "Secure-a-field's staff were very adaptable with their design, overcoming issues with levelling and avoiding damage to tree roots. The installation was carried out sympathetically, situating the platform into the slope and disturbing as few bluebells as possible.

"We hope that photographers will find kneeling or lying on the platform can provide the 'amongst the Bluebell shot' they seek, as well as give a space to admire this natural wonder without trampling these delicate plants underfoot."

Our Southern Office installed the viewing platform during May of this year and for the first time the bluebells can enjoy a trample-free spring in 2020.

To find out more about our range of recycled plastic products and how we can make them work for your project, contact our sales team on 01530 242 405.