Isle of Man Footbridge Decking Project
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking for a remote footbridge and walkway project on the Isle of Man, where access was so limited that materials had to be helicoptered into position.
Project Overview
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking for a footbridge and walkway project on the Isle of Man. The decking formed part of a walking trail route where the surface needed to provide durable, slip-resistant pedestrian access in an exposed outdoor environment.
Due to extremely limited access, the materials had to be helicoptered into position. This made product selection, preparation and delivery planning especially important, as the decking needed to arrive ready for a challenging installation location.
A Remote Walkway Project with Unusual Access Challenges
The Isle of Man is known for its dramatic coastal scenery, walking routes and rural landscapes. For this project, the walkway location was difficult to access using normal transport methods, meaning decking materials had to be carefully prepared before being moved into place by helicopter.
Remote footbridge and trail projects require decking that is robust, practical and suitable for long-term outdoor use. GripDeck® anti-slip decking provided a timber surface designed to improve grip while remaining appropriate for a natural walking trail environment.
Project Gallery
Remote Walkway
Softwood GripDeck® decking installed on an Isle of Man walking trail route.
Footbridge Decking
Anti-slip decking used to create safer pedestrian access across the footbridge.
Walking Trail Access
GripDeck® boards used in a rural outdoor trail environment.
Timber Walkway
Smooth profile boards with anti-slip inserts for exposed pedestrian use.
Boardwalk Detail
Factory-applied inserts provide improved grip along the walkway surface.
Exposed Location
Anti-slip decking selected for an outdoor route exposed to changing weather.
Helicopter Delivery
Materials were transported by helicopter due to limited site access.
Completed Walkway
Finished anti-slip timber walkway installed in the Isle of Man landscape.
The Challenge
The project required decking for a remote walkway and footbridge where weather exposure, pedestrian safety and site access all had to be considered. The location meant materials could not simply be delivered by standard vehicle and unloaded beside the work area.
Restricted Access
The site was difficult to reach, requiring materials to be moved into position by helicopter.
Outdoor Exposure
The decking needed to perform in a rural environment exposed to rain, moisture and changing weather.
Pedestrian Safety
The walkway required improved slip resistance for walkers using the trail throughout the year.
The GripDeck® Solution
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking in a 72mm x 195mm smooth profile with 2 anti-slip inserts. The wide board section provided a robust walking surface, while the factory-applied inserts helped improve grip in wet and dry conditions.
Because the inserts were applied at the factory, the boards arrived ready for installation, which was important given the logistical challenges and remote site location.
72mm x 195mm Boards
A substantial softwood board size selected for a robust footbridge and walkway application.
Smooth Profile
Smooth profile decking with machined insert channels for GripDeck® anti-slip inserts.
2 Anti-Slip Inserts
Two factory-applied resin and aggregate inserts provided improved slip resistance across the board surface.
Why GripDeck® Softwood Was Suitable
Softwood GripDeck® decking offers a practical balance of strength, value, appearance and anti-slip performance. For boardwalks, bridges and rural walkways, it provides a timber surface that works well in natural environments while giving improved grip compared with standard decking.
Cost-Effective
Softwood GripDeck® offers strong value for larger walkway and access projects.
Factory Prepared
The decking was manufactured and prepared before delivery, reducing work required in a difficult location.
Natural Finish
The timber appearance was suitable for a rural walking trail and footbridge environment.
Supporting Safer Walking Trail Access
Walking trail surfaces can become slippery due to rain, mud, leaves, algae and shade. On bridges and boardwalks, this can be particularly important because pedestrians are often channelled along a narrow route.
GripDeck® anti-slip inserts help improve grip while retaining a natural timber appearance, making them suitable for rural access projects, bridges, boardwalks and public walking routes.
Results
Improved Grip
Factory-applied inserts provide enhanced slip resistance for pedestrians.
Remote Delivery Achieved
Decking materials were successfully prepared for helicopter delivery to a difficult access site.
Natural Appearance
Softwood decking provided a suitable finish for a rural landscape and walking trail setting.
Robust Walkway Surface
The 72mm x 195mm boards provided a substantial deck surface for the footbridge route.
Factory Quality
Inserts were applied under controlled factory conditions before the boards reached site.
Public Access Support
The completed walkway helps support safer access along the walking trail.
Product Used
GripDeck® Softwood Anti-Slip Decking
Softwood timber decking with factory-applied resin and aggregate anti-slip inserts. Suitable for walkways, bridges, boardwalks, gardens and public access projects.
View ProductWhy GripDeck® Was Suitable
Tested Slip Resistance
GripDeck® anti-slip products are tested for wet and dry slip resistance performance.
View Test ResultsDeckMark Plus Accredited
GripDeck® products are supported by recognised product accreditation for added specification confidence.
Learn MoreWalkway Project Support
GripDeck® can advise on board size, timber species, insert layouts and suitability for access projects.
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Request a Quote Request SamplesFrequently Asked Questions
What decking was supplied for the Isle of Man footbridge?
GripDeck® supplied softwood anti-slip decking in a 72mm x 195mm smooth profile with 2 factory-applied anti-slip inserts.
Why were the materials helicoptered into position?
The site had extremely restricted access, so materials had to be transported by helicopter to reach the installation location.
Is GripDeck® suitable for bridges and boardwalks?
Yes. GripDeck® anti-slip decking is suitable for many bridges, boardwalks, walkways and rural access routes where improved grip is required.
Should bridges use 2 or 3 inserts?
Two inserts are suitable in around 90% of applications. Where the main direction of travel is along the length of the board, a 3-insert layout may be preferred depending on project requirements.