Colchester Zoo Walkway Improvements with GripDeck® Anti-Slip Decking
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking for upgraded visitor walkways and public access areas at Colchester Zoo in Essex.
Project Overview
Colchester Zoo required durable, attractive and slip-resistant timber decking for upgraded pedestrian walkways and public access areas. As a busy visitor attraction, the decking needed to support regular foot traffic while providing improved grip in wet weather conditions.
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking manufactured from high-quality European Redwood with factory-applied anti-slip inserts. The result is a natural timber walkway surface designed to improve safety while blending into the zoo’s landscaped surroundings.
Creating Safer Walkways for One of Essex’s Leading Visitor Attractions
Colchester Zoo is one of Essex’s best-known visitor attractions, welcoming large numbers of families, schools and visitors throughout the year. Outdoor pedestrian routes at visitor attractions must perform in all seasons, including wet weather, shaded areas and periods of heavy daily foot traffic.
Standard timber decking can become slippery when exposed to rain, leaf debris, moss, algae and general outdoor wear. For a high-footfall site such as Colchester Zoo, selecting an anti-slip decking product helps improve confidence underfoot while retaining the attractive appearance of timber.
Project Gallery
Visitor Walkway
Softwood GripDeck® decking installed as part of visitor walkway improvements.
Public Access Route
Anti-slip timber decking used for pedestrian access through the zoo grounds.
Natural Timber Finish
GripDeck® anti-slip inserts provide grip while retaining the appearance of timber decking.
Walkway Detail
Factory-applied inserts bonded directly into the timber board surface.
Visitor Attraction Decking
Anti-slip decking suitable for public access and high-footfall environments.
The Challenge
Zoo pathways experience regular foot traffic and need to remain safe and practical throughout the year. Outdoor timber walkways can become slippery when exposed to wet weather, organic debris and shaded conditions.
The project required a decking solution that would:
Improve Slip Resistance
Provide enhanced grip in wet and dry conditions for visitors moving around the site.
Withstand Public Use
Offer a durable surface suitable for regular pedestrian traffic in a visitor attraction environment.
Retain Natural Appearance
Complement the zoo’s landscaped setting with a traditional timber finish.
The GripDeck® Solution
GripDeck® Softwood Anti-Slip Decking was selected for its combination of timber appearance, factory-applied anti-slip inserts and long-term performance. Each board includes resin and aggregate inserts bonded into the timber surface during manufacture.
Unlike temporary surface coatings, paints or adhesive tapes, GripDeck® anti-slip inserts are integrated into the decking board, creating a more durable solution for outdoor walkway environments.
European Redwood Timber
Softwood decking manufactured from quality European Redwood for a cost-effective and attractive timber surface.
Factory-Applied Inserts
Anti-slip inserts applied under controlled factory conditions for consistent quality and performance.
Public Access Suitability
A practical anti-slip decking option for walkways, visitor routes, schools, parks and leisure settings.
Supporting Accessibility and Visitor Safety
Colchester Zoo welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities, including families with pushchairs, wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility. Safe, reliable pedestrian routes are an important part of the visitor experience.
The installation of GripDeck® anti-slip decking helps provide confidence underfoot, particularly during wet weather when conventional timber decking can become more hazardous.
Results
Enhanced Grip
Improved slip resistance for visitors during wet and dry conditions.
Natural Appearance
A timber finish that complements the zoo’s landscaped surroundings.
Durable Walkways
A robust solution suitable for high-footfall visitor environments.
Reduced Maintenance
A longer-term alternative to short-life anti-slip paints, tapes and surface coatings.
Local Supply
GripDeck® is based in Colchester, making this a strong example of local manufacturing supporting a local attraction.
Visitor Confidence
Improved underfoot confidence for families, staff and visitors throughout the year.
Product Used
GripDeck® Softwood Anti-Slip Decking
Manufactured from European Redwood timber with factory-applied anti-slip inserts. Available in smooth and grooved profiles for domestic, commercial and public access projects.
View ProductWhy GripDeck® Softwood Was Suitable
Cost-Effective
Softwood GripDeck® offers a practical balance of price, performance and appearance.
DeckMark Plus Accredited
GripDeck® products are supported by recognised product accreditation.
Learn MoreTested Slip Resistance
GripDeck® products are tested for wet and dry slip resistance performance.
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Request a Quote Request SamplesFrequently Asked Questions
What decking was supplied for Colchester Zoo?
GripDeck® Softwood Anti-Slip Decking was supplied for upgraded visitor walkways and public access areas.
Why is anti-slip decking suitable for visitor attractions?
Visitor attractions experience high foot traffic in all weather conditions. Anti-slip decking helps improve grip while retaining a natural outdoor appearance.
Can GripDeck® decking be used for public walkways?
Yes. GripDeck® anti-slip decking is suitable for many public access applications including walkways, bridges, schools, parks, leisure sites and visitor attractions.
Can samples be requested before ordering?
Yes. GripDeck® can provide samples so customers can review timber appearance, profile and anti-slip insert finish before placing an order.