Have you ever found yourself caught in a downpour, struggling through a crowded street as you dodge other pedestrians and puddles?
Navigating a maze of streets while commuters and shoppers rush by can be overwhelming enough without having to brace yourself against the elements too.
Fortunately, there’s a solution that provides accessibility and comfort in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. Covered walkways are often overlooked but provide more than just a little shelter from a storm.
In this blog, our experts at Arc Structures explore the benefits of utilising covered walkways in high-traffic areas, from business parks to schools and shopping precincts.
What is a Covered Walkway?
A covered walkway is a sturdy structure designed to provide shelter to pedestrians in outdoor areas where there is high footfall. Constructed with robust and durable materials, including steel, glass, and aluminium, it provides protection against harsh weather conditions such as snow, rain and blistering sun. Its design ensures people can move freely and comfortably while they are protected from the elements.
Where Can a Covered Walkway Be Used?
The versatility of covered walkways makes them suitable for a wide range of settings. They are an excellent solution in areas such as:
Recreational Spaces
In parks and playgrounds, covered walkways can provide shaded areas where children can play.
Retail Centres
They are also helpful in shopping centres, allowing customers to move from one store to the next without exposure to sun or rain.
Educational Buildings
High schools, colleges and universities can also benefit from covered walkways to connect campus buildings and classrooms.
Hospitals and Health Care Facilities
In areas where visitors and patients pass through frequently, covered walkways can provide comfortable waiting or seating areas.
Transportation areas
By constructing covered walkways at bus stops and train stations, commuters can board and exit their rides without being affected by harsh weather conditions.
Due to their adaptability, covered walkways are an excellent investment for any public space or private property, such as business parks.
If you’re unsure whether your location is suitable for a covered walkway, why not get in touch with a member of our team with your project specifications, we’re on hand to advise you on the perfect solution.
Design Considerations for Covered Walkways
If you are considering adding a covered walkway to your location, it’s important to keep in mind a few essential factors that will contribute to its functionality and appeal:
Accessibility
When designing a public space like a walkway, it’s important to keep everyone in mind, including those who might have mobility issues, strollers or wheelchairs. Certain features are essential to ensure safe access and movement across the walkway, including:
- Ramps
- Handrails
- Anti-slip and tactile pavements
- Wide, obstruction-free clearance
Materials
It’s important to choose materials that can withstand exposure to weather conditions such as sun, wind, and snow that can cause damage or wear over time.
In addition to weather resistance, it’s also advisable to opt for materials that are easy to maintain or clean, especially if the walkway will be located in a high-traffic area.
Examples of suitable materials include steel, aluminium, glass, polycarbonate and fabric, which are lightweight, flexible, insulative and offer UV protection.
Lighting and Signage
Ensuring that your walkway has proper lighting is essential for maintaining safety and security, particularly at night. Using energy-efficient or motion-activated lighting fixtures is an excellent option, as they consume less energy than traditional alternatives, making them both long-lasting and low maintenance.
In addition to lighting, signage can also help users in finding their way to stores, offices, classrooms, and school buildings.
Benefits of Covered Walkways for Busy Areas
Shelter from Harsh Weather
Covered walkways provide protection from the elements, such as rain, snow and sunlight, meaning people can walk through these areas without getting drenched on their way to their next class, meeting or social meetup. As a result, they can go about their day without worrying about the weather.
Reduced Risk of Accidents and Maintenance
Covered walkways are helpful in preventing rain and snow from accumulating directly on the ground. This helps in reducing the risk of slips and falls in areas where the ground may be wet or icy making it safer for pedestrians to walk.
Additionally, covered walkways also help to reduce weather-related wear and tear on the ground, such as erosion and damage from freezing and thawing. Not only does this extend the life of concrete and other materials, but it also helps to save on costs for maintenance and repairs.
Comfortable Arrival and Departure
Covered walkways provide a sheltered space for people to move around easily and comfortably when entering or exiting shops, schools, or office buildings.
Reduced Congestion in High-Traffic Areas
Walkways can be strategically positioned to boost accessibility, reducing congestion and improving the movement of people in densely populated areas, such as bus stops and commercial areas.
Flexible Design and Placement
In comparison to building more permanent structures, such as additional buildings or connecting corridors, covered walkways offer a far more adaptable and flexible solutions for creating a sheltered areas in environments with evolving needs.
Improved Security
Covered walkways are a great place for integrating security features onto your premises, providing shelter for lighting fixtures and security cameras that can help deter potential thefts or break-ins. Not only does this boost security on your premises but it will make pedestrians feel safer.
Tensile Fabric Solutions from Arc Structures
With over 20 years of expertise, Arc Structures specialise in crafting innovative and durable tensile architecture, fabric canopies, walkways, and more.
Whether you require a covered walkway for your business park, shopping centre or school, our experienced team ensures exceptional design, construction, and maintenance, tailored to your needs.
To find out more about how we can enhance your walkways, get in touch with our team and let us know your project specifications.