Oxford Brookes University | Case Study

All in the detail

CitiDeck®, a smooth, profiled non-slip timber decking board, was used on the roof terrace and ground-level terraced areas of the postgraduate lounge and balconies from the student flats at Oxford Brookes University.

CitiDeck® combines all the safety benefits of Antislip Plus® inserts with the user-friendly nature of smooth deck boards, which are much easier to walk on in heeled shoes in urban environments compared to castellated decking. The grit is also slightly less abrasive than Antislip Plus®, providing a smoother surface for wheelchair users.

In addition to providing improved walking comfort for users with healed shoes, Citideck® timber decking is frequently specified for outdoor areas where food is served. Its smooth surface prevents food, dirt, or litter becoming trapped, making it much easier to clean for maintenance teams.

The postgraduate social provision lounge at Oxford Brookes University, which is part of the new eco-friendly £17million ‘village’ development, forms part of the Marston Road Phase 3 project. The building provides an additional 358 residential units for postgraduates close to existing halls of residence.

Citideck® timber decking was installed for the roof terrace, ground-level terraced areas of the postgraduate lounge and balconies from the student flats. Initially developed for the demands of a high-profile sporting event, the product has grown in popularity due to its smooth user friendly non slip surface.

Specifics

Product

Citideck

Sector

Education

Architect

Michael Magri - GSS Architects

Location

Oxford

oxford brookes case study using Marley decking

Architect on the project Michael Magri, of GSS Architecture’s Bristol office, explained: “We specified our general requirement, which was for timber decking to fit with the natural aspect of the design – the ground floor terrace surrounds and cantilevers over the central water feature.

The antislip requirement was a major priority in this area, which will have heavy pedestrian traffic throughout the year.” CitiDeck® combines all the safety benefits of Antislip Plus® inserts with the user-friendly nature of smooth deck boards, which are much easier to walk on in heeled shoes in urban environments compared to castellated decking.

It also provides a smoother surface for wheelchair users and the visually impaired. Marley recommends the use of Antislip Plus® inserts for all decks where there is public access, or a high level of pedestrian traffic. Oxford Brookes University was supplied with two Antislip Plus® inserts, which provide users with a safe, slip resistant surface in all weathers. In addition to providing improved walking comfort for users with high heeled shoes, CitiDeck® is frequently specified for outdoor areas where food is served.

Its smooth surface prevents food, dirt or litter becoming trapped, making it much easier to clean for maintenance teams. Natural decking has the lowest embodied energy of any mainstream building material and is a managed material to deliver a more sustainable product, enhancing the environmental credentials of the project.

All Marley decking boards meet BS7976 with full FSC and PEFC chain of custody. CitiDeck® timber decking provides complete peace of mind with a comprehensive 25-year guarantee. Technical support is provided by Marley throughout the lifecycle of the project, from specification with the client or landscape architect, to advice for the contractor on correct installation. As every project has different challenges and objectives, our experienced technical support team can work with you to discuss your requirements and help you find the best solution.

Marley's Antislip Plus® inserts have been independently tested by the HSE’s Health and Safety Laboratory, using a Stanley Pendulum Test (as described in BS 7976 parts 1-3, 2002) operated to issue 3, 2005 of the UK Slip Resistance Group (UKSRG) guidelines. Antislip Plus® was shown to significantly exceed the minimum requirement for ‘low potential for slip’ in both wet and dry conditions.

Sample basket