BTCV Handbooks Online

Book:	How & Why
Chapter:	How to improve access
Section:	Hands-on techniques
Metadata:	Details	Buy this book

Path Construction

Mark out the line of the path with string and pegs, include an allowance for any path edgings.

Consider where you will be dumping the spoil. Strip the turf off and use to resurface the spoil.

Excavate between 8cm and 22cm depending on the soil conditions and the pressure the path will have to bear.

Put in any edgings.

Lay the hardcore base and consolidate it thoroughly. Build any camber or crossfall into this layer. Avoid using stones that are more than half the depth of the layer.

Finish to the required level with fine material consolidated thoroughly.

Drainage

The surface of the path must be cambered to shed water that falls on it. There are three basic types of drain:

Side drains

Intercept water that might flow across the path and gather water shed from the path where it cannot be left to run off.

Cross drains

Take the flow from side drains across the path and act as cutoffs.

Cutoffs

Intercept water flowing down the path and divert it into the side drains or down the hillside. The water should be shed well clear of the path so it cannot run back onto it.

Ensure that the drains will neither be eroded nor blocked by silt being deposited.

Ensure drain lines and design and size of drains are decided upon before starting work.

Construct drains starting from the bottom of the hill and work uphill so that any water drains from the work site.

Steps

Use local materials where possible, but only if good quality. Railway sleepers are a good material.

The tread length will vary with gradient, but should be as constant as possible within one flight and never less than 30cm. Build several flights of different gradient rather than one flight of varying gradient. The height of risers should be nearly constant and a maximum of 20cm.

Boardwalk

Boardwalks are ideal for crossing difficult terrain, usually waterlogged.

Steps can also be built into boardwalks.

Avoid straight lines and take account of rising water levels.

A boardwalk can be an obtrusive element in the landscape, and should be used selectively. They can add interest to wildlife interpretation by allowing close access to interesting vegetation. The use of curved runs adds interest and enables the boardwalk to be fitted into natural uneven terrain. They are most useful for the protection of fragile areas to which controlled access is required and provide a smooth, firm surface for wheelchair users. If used as ramps, the maximum gradient should not exceed 1:12, but 1:20 is better.

Bridges

Depending on what the client wants, there is a range of options.

Consider access to the site, particularly for materials, and who will be using the bridge.

Timber Bridge

Provides sturdy construction for heavily used footbridges.

Timber bridges are built around two, or more, main beams with decking placed across at intervals.

If required a handrail can be attached as shown in the diagram.

Sleeper Bridge

Easily constructed, with only a few materials required. Good for crossing streams.

Duckboard

A more solid construction and is more secure underfoot.

Gates

Gates need to be built around a hanging post and a shutting post. This can be incorporated into either a wall (see How to dry stone wall) or a fence (see How to build fences).

Stiles

Stiles are built into fences or walls to prevent stock straying and allow access to pathways.

Follow the standard dimensions shown in the diagram where possible.

Recommended Dimensions

Recommended Design

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

On surfacing, waymarking and erosion control, refer to Footpaths - a practical handbook by E Agate (1996) BTCV

This information is believed to be correct but does not obviate the need for further enquiries as appropriate.

This is not a comprehensive statement of all safety procedures to ensure the health and safety of all users.

No responsibility is accepted by BTCV for accidents or damage as a result of its use.

The information and advice in this leaflet can assist you to gain National Vocational Qualifications in Environmental Conservation with BTCV.