One Local Authority presents a standout example of forward-thinking in public infrastructure management, particularly within its Public Rights of Way (PRoW) operations. Unlike many councils that rely exclusively on external contractors bound by legacy methods and outdated procurement practices, this authority has taken a proactive, long-term approach by working directly with GripClad to deliver innovative materials such as Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP).
Traditionally, councils have left material decisions in the hands of “approved” contractors — often CHAS or Constructionline certified — who tend to stick with familiar materials like timber, steel, or concrete. While these materials may meet immediate budget constraints, they frequently incur long-term costs due to maintenance, degradation, or safety concerns.
The in-house PRoW team at this Local Authority recognised early the advantages of GRP: a lightweight, corrosion-resistant, non-conductive and highly durable alternative. These properties make GRP ideal for challenging environments where electricity, chemicals, moisture, or heavy use are factors — all common conditions in public infrastructure.
By sourcing GRP products directly, the authority not only avoids the mark-ups and compromises made by contractors chasing margins but also ensures quality, longevity, and ease of installation. This approach saves time and money while improving public safety and sustainability.
Their success underscores a vital message for other councils: procurement processes and outdated contractor-led decisions are holding authorities back from adopting smarter, future-proof solutions.
If more councils adopted this model — empowering their internal teams and engaging directly with material innovators — they could unlock major savings and performance benefits across their rights of way networks and other public assets.
One of the main products used to replace traditional boardwalks, walkways, and footbridges is GripClad’s GRP Grating and GRP Structural Profiles. The GRP Grating offers exceptional slip resistance, as verified by the Pendulum Test Method in accordance with British Standard BS 7976-2:2002 + A1:2013. This test measures the surface’s slip resistance and determines the Pendulum Test Value (PTV). GripClad’s GRP Grating achieves a PTV of 36 or higher, indicating a Low Slip Potential.
Get in touch on 023 8040 6796 or email enquiries@gripclad.co.uk
https://gripclad.co.uk/industries/forestry-outdoors