University of Birmingham

Decking

AntiSlip Plus® decking has been specified for the stylish Mermaid Square social hub at Birmingham University’s Guild of Students building in Edgbaston.

All in the detail

AntiSlip Plus® was independently tested by the HSE’s Health and Safety Laboratory, (in accordance with BS 7976, parts 1-3, 2002) to the United Kingdom Slip Resistance Group guidelines (Issue 3, 2005).   

AntiSlip Plus® was shown to significantly exceed the minimum requirement for ‘low potential for slip’ in both wet and dry conditions, and is therefore recommended for all decks where there is public access, or a high level of pedestrian traffic. 

The Students Union at the University of Birmingham has been fully refurbished over a two year programme, culminating in the creation of an outdoor socialising area which provides a focal meeting point and links food and beverage outlets with a new retail hub and an administration center.

Senior Project Surveyor for the University Andy Stone said pedestrian safety had been a high priority for Mermaid Square and he was pleased with the choice of AntiSlip Plus®.

He added: “The decking is performing extremely well on its anti-slip qualities. It has been in full use for several months and has taken very high footfall with no reported slip related accidents to date. The decking also looks very good and has added an extra dimension to the look and feel of the Mermaid Square area.”

Specifics

Product

  • AntiSlip Plus®

Sector

  • Education and Schools

Architect

  • Matthew Mee Interior Design and Architecture

Location

  • Midlands

Note: All of our decking products now use a new treatment which changes their colour to Sienna Brown. While the colour has changed, the case studies still serve as a good indicator for the shape, function and possible applications of the product range. To see the new colour, please visit the main decking page or request a product sample.

A close up image of a plank of anti-slip decking, showing the varying textures of the decking.

Lead designers on the project were Matthews Mee Interior Design and Architecture, based in Wakefield, and the main contractor was Neat Experts Ltd of Newton Abbott. 

Rob Matthews of Matthews Mee said: “We specified AntiSlip Plus® because of its anti-slip properties which were absolutely critical as pedestrians will be crossing it in all weathers. It also looks really attractive and the company was able to demonstrate that the timber is from a sustainable source.”

AntiSlip Plus® is created using a unique formula of resin-based aggregate inserts that are injected into the company’s range of timber decking. AntiSlip Plus® inserts are offered in a range of colours that can be used to safely highlight changes in gradient or levels where steps or slopes are located. 

AntiSlip Plus® is recommended for all commercial applications and where there is public access.  It is available in a choice of wood types depending on application in both grooved and smooth boards.

Marley is committed to environmental best practice.  All its timber is either FSC or PEFC certified and supplied with a chain of custody number, verifying that it is always sourced from sustainable, independently certified and well managed forests.