New decking prompts rethink

The installation of Dura Composites’ GRP Dura Grating on the Walcon-built pontoons used to create its Island Berths concept, prompted a new line of thinking at Shepperton Marina in Middlesex, UK.

Shepperton opened ‘The Island’ in August 2021 as a unique addition to its D Basin (see World News). It features 26 new berths for boats of 10 to 14m (33 to 46ft) arranged in a circle. Dura Composites supplied Walcon with its sand-coloured Dura Grating Mini Mesh decking product, which is strong, long lasting and anti-slip.
“We chose the composite Dura Grating for this project for a number of reasons, mainly the safety, low maintenance and aesthetic aspects,” said Shepperton’s Lisa Harris. “During the colder months when pontoons can become icy or slippery, the composite grating surface remains safe for our staff and customers to walk on. In my opinion, from a health and safety point of view, you can’t beat it.”
Harris says that the marina has spent a lot of time over the years replacing wooden deck boards. This is not necessary with the Dura Grating product, which saves both time and money. Many customers have also complimented marina staff on how safe they feel walking on the new decking.
A rethink was prompted. “Thanks to the successful installation of our new Island Berths, we have now established a complete pontoon decking replacement programme where we will replace timber with GRP Dura Grating,” Harris confirms. “We expect to complete this in the next couple of years.”
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