Overview

March 2009 saw the completion of the refurbishment of Rayleigh Primary School, a building project which ensured Rayleigh Primary was brought up to date and in line with current schooling legislation.

Part of this transformation included the installation of a bespoke walkway consisting of 11 continuous conics to provide a covered link between buildings and a brand new entrance feature with fabric banner, showcasing Rayleigh’s school crest.

A new entrance and link canopy was required to not only welcome students, but keep them under cover when walking between school buildings.  Following an unusual ‘U’ shaped layout, the continuous walkway ran the length of three buildings.  Using galvanised steel and white PVC fabric, the walkway was designed with weather protection and light transmission in mind.

Not without its challenges, Rayleigh had quite a few obstacles to overcome!  With access for plant equipment impossible, varying ground levels and differing widths between buildings, the canopy took a high degree of design input.  Rainwater run off was crucial and the canopy was widened to ensure paths below were covered, alleviating any slip hazards that may have been caused by excess water.