Accessible Temporary Walkway Mats for Public Perimeter Access in Reading
At a major new housing development in Reading, a leading construction group needed to maintain safe public access around the perimeter of an active site. As winter conditions set in, wet and muddy ground created slip hazards for pedestrians and wheelchair users. The team required a rapid, cost-effective solution that could be installed quickly and provide secure, non-slip access in poor weather.
The Challenge: Safe Public Access for Wheelchair Users in Wet and Muddy Conditions
With colder months approaching, the route around the site became increasingly slippery and difficult to navigate. The priority was to keep public access open while reducing slip risk and improving stability underfoot.
The solution needed to be suitable for mixed users, including wheelchair access, and practical to deploy quickly without disrupting ongoing construction activity.
Our Solution: FastCover Non-Slip Walkway Mats With Edging Ramps
After discussion with GroundGuards, the team selected FastCover ground protection mats to form a temporary public access walkway. FastCover provides a durable, interlocking system designed for rapid deployment, with a stable, trip-free surface and strong grip in wet conditions.
Smooth Transitions for Wheelchair Accessibility
The FastCover system includes gentle edging ramps to create a seamless transition between the matting and natural ground. This improved accessibility for wheelchair users and reduced trip points at entry and exit locations.
Quick Manual Installation With No Machinery
Because FastCover mats are lightweight, the full pathway could be installed quickly by hand without mechanical lifting. This enabled the team to respond promptly as conditions worsened through winter.
Results: A Robust, Weather-Resistant Pedestrian Route
The system delivered a safe, stable, weather-resistant route that maintained public access around the construction site. The on-site Contract Surveyor commented:
“This is a great product, robust and non-slip. It has maintained much-needed access for the public until the new development footpath has been completed.”
FastCover helped ensure access remained open and safe for all users, regardless of weather, until the permanent footpath was finished.
Key Lessons for Temporary Public Walkways Around Construction Sites
- Address public access early before winter conditions increase slip risk and accessibility issues.
- Use non-slip walkway mats to create stable routes where ground becomes muddy or uneven.
- Include edging ramps to improve wheelchair access and reduce trip points at transitions.
- Choose systems that install by hand to enable rapid response without tying up plant or labour.
- Temporary access routes can protect reputation and reduce risk while permanent footpaths are completed.
Speak to GroundGuards About Accessible Temporary Walkway Mats
If you need temporary access for wheelchair users or safe pedestrian movement around an active site in challenging conditions, GroundGuards can help. Our walkway matting is trusted on construction projects across the UK. Contact our team to discuss the right solution for your site.
