Sustainable Innovation in Action: TMP Bio-Polymer Manchester Bollards Trial with Transport For London

At TMP, we are committed to driving innovation in street furniture, balancing durability, sustainability, and performance. Our latest collaboration with Transport for London (TfL) and Ringway – Works for London, saw the installation of 26 TMP Bio-Polymer Manchester Bollards across six key locations in the capital.

This pioneering trial aimed to assess the effectiveness and durability of our bio-polymer bollards, made from sugarcane-derived materials, in tackling illegal vehicle access to footways. As a fully recyclable solution, these bollards offer a sustainable alternative to traditional materials, aligning with TfL’s vision for a greener, more resilient transport network.

Trial Overview: Addressing Footway Protection Challenges

Key Trial Locations

The bollards were strategically installed at six high-traffic sites where vehicle overrun and illegal parking had damaged the footway:

• A1 Holloway Road (6 bollards) – Addressing significant pavement cracking.
• A41 Finchley Road (3 bollards planned, 1 installed) – Preventing vehicle loading.
• A107 Clapton Common (4 bollards) – Reducing vehicle overrun damage.
• A24 Tooting High Street (2 bollards) – Limiting unloading-related pavement damage.
• A24 Balham High Road (5 bollards) – Stopping illegal vehicle parking on the forecourt.
• A24 Balham Hill (6 bollards + 2 cycle stands) – Preventing further pavement cracking.

These areas were selected due to ongoing issues with footway overrun, requiring a long-lasting, visually unobtrusive, and environmentally friendly solution.

Performance & Observations

Following installation, TfL and Ringway monitored the effectiveness of the bollards in preventing vehicle access while evaluating their structural integrity and resilience under real-world conditions. The results were highly promising:

• 23 out of 24 bollards remained fully intact, maintaining their aesthetic appeal and functional purpose.
• No further pavement damage was observed at locations where bollards were installed.
• Bollards successfully deterred illegal vehicle movements, reinforcing their effectiveness.
• Sustainable benefits noted – No environmental impact or deterioration beyond expected wear.

One bollard at Holloway Road suffered an impact-related failure, where the top section detached due to compression from a vehicle strike. However, the bollard remained in one piece, ensuring there were no sharp edges or safety concerns.

The Verdict: A Sustainable, Effective Solution for Urban Environments

This trial has demonstrated that TMP Bio-Polymer Manchester Bollards are a viable and sustainable solution for footway protection. Their ability to prevent vehicle access while maintaining a standard bollard appearance makes them an excellent option for urban environments where aesthetics and durability are key.

TfL has expressed interest in exploring a wider rollout, with future installations likely as part of maintenance replacement works or new schemes. While the use of footway bollards is becoming less frequent, the performance of the TMP Bio-Polymer Manchester Bollard in this trial establishes it as a reliable, sustainable choice for city infrastructure.

Why Choose TMP Bio-Polymer Bollards?

• Eco-Friendly – Made from renewable sugarcane-derived materials.
• Durable & Resilient – Withstands urban wear and tear.
• Highly Effective – Prevents illegal footway access and overrun.
• Fully Recyclable – Aligning with sustainability goals.
• Customisable – Various designs and finishes available.

Looking Ahead: A Greener Future for Street Furniture

As urban environments evolve, the demand for sustainable, low-maintenance solutions grows. The TMP Bio-Polymer Manchester Bollard is leading the way in combining functionality with environmental responsibility.

Interested in incorporating sustainable street furniture into your projects? Get in touch with our team today to learn more about our innovative range of solutions.